§ 8. Mr. K. Robinsonasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that pharmacists working in mental hospitals suffer financial disadvantage compared with those working in general hospitals; and if he will take steps, through his representatives on the appropriate Whitley Council, to remove this anomaly, especially in view of the rapid growth of chemotherapy in the treatment of mental disorder.
§ Mr. Walker-SmithThe rates of pay of pharmacists in mental hospitals, other than chief pharmacists, are the same as those for pharmacists in general hospitals. The rates of pay of the chief pharmacists vary in accordance with a points scheme which takes into account, amongst other things, the size and type of hospital, and was agreed by the Pharmaceutical Whitley Council. The scheme is at present under review by the Whitley Council and the information being obtained will doubtless reflect any changes in the pharmaceutical work in mental hospitals.
§ Mr. RobinsonWhatever may have been the historical reason for this differentiation among chief pharmacists, is he aware that it has caused difficulties in 14 recruitment for mental hospitals in the past? In view of this new development of drug treatment in mental hospitals the need for differentiation has completely disappeared. Will the Minister do what he can, through the Whitley Council, to see that this anomaly is removed?
§ Mr. Walker-SmithWe had better await the results of this inquiry, which I understand should be available to the Whitley Council in the near future.