§ 22. Mr. Pavittasked the Minister of Health how many senior registrars have now completed their training and are awaiting higher posts; how many are in their sixth or even later year; how many have attained additional qualifications such as Ch.M., M.D. by thesis, and Hunterian Professorships; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Minister of Health (Mr. Derek Walker-Smith)The corrected figure is 120 as at 1st July, 1959. Of these 120, 683 78 are in their 6th or later year. I regret that the other information asked for is not available.
§ Mr. PavittWill the Minister provide the rest of the information in due course? Is it not rather deplorable that this problem of time-expired registrars should have baffled the Ministry for so long? Will he now use his personal influence with regional hospital boards to see whether they can absorb into consultant rank those senior registrars who have higher qualifications?
§ Mr. Walker-SmithThis matter, as I think the hon. Gentleman knows, is subject to the findings of the working party which was set up two years ago and which is working conscientiously to provide recommendations in regard to the medical staffing structure in our hospitals.
§ Dr. SummerskillCan the Minister say whether some scheme cannot be devised whereby the services of these frustrated registrars could be used in our underdeveloped countries, while giving them an undertaking that they would not lose their chances of promotion to consultant status here?
§ Mr. Walker-SmithThat raises a rather different consideration. In point of fact, as the right hon. Lady knows, here at home we have supplemented what we are seeking to do in the long-term by the designation of certain posts, a scheme which was introduced simultaneously with the setting up of the working party.
§ Mr. SpeakerMr. Pavitt, the next Question.
§ Mr. PavittCan the Minister say when the working party is likely to report?
§ Mr. SpeakerI called the hon. Member to ask Question No. 23.