§ 12. Mr. Gourlayasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware of restrictions in the conditions of service of some hospital nurses; and whether he will improve the consultative machinery in the hospital service.
§ Mr. GalbraithI am not clear what the hon. Member has in mind in the first part of the Question. As regards the second part, it is for staff and management at each hospital to consider how consultation can best be carried out. Either side can take the initiative in seeking the establishment of a formal committee.
§ Mr. GourlayIs the Minister aware that while there are excellent staff relations in the majority of Scottish hospitals and it is recognised that discipline is necessary, nevertheless in many hospitals of Scotland discipline is overbearing or petty and sometimes that affects patients' recovery? Therefore, will he do something to remedy this situation in order to stop staff wastage and to help nurse recruiting?
§ Mr. GalbraithI think most of these matters are suitable for examination on a local basis and are not appropriate to be brought to the notice of my right hon. Friend.