HC Deb 08 December 1960 vol 631 c1415
9. Mr. Boyden

asked the Minister of Education how many special schools are without trained physiotherapy staff.

Mr. K. Thompson

Twenty-eight of the 131 boarding and day special schools which provide for physically handicapped children were without trained physiotherapy staff in November, 1959, when a special survey was made. In 24 of these, mainly day schools, children needing treatment received it at local hospitals or clinics and two schools had facilities for providing treatment, but were temporarily without staff.

Mr. Boyden

In view of the general shortage in the hospital service as well, what steps is the hon. Gentleman taking in consultation with his right hon. Friend to improve the general supply of this type of trained staff?

Mr. Thompson

The supply of physiotherapists is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health, and I know that he has this shortage under consideration.