HC Deb 20 March 1961 vol 637 cc18-9
26. Mr. Hale

asked the Minister of Health what is the present minimum salary of a fully qualified nurse in hospital service after five, 15, and 25 years' service, respectively; and what is the estimated value of her additional emoluments.

Miss Pitt

£630, £656 and £656 in a general hospital and £683, £709 and £709 in a psychiatric hospital, if the nurse remains in the lowest grade. Part payment by way of emoluments was abolished in 1949.

Mr. Hale

Does not this mean that members of the nursing profession are the worst paid of Her Majesty's subjects, having regard to their very great responsibility, their great knowledge and the value of their practical experience in the Service? Has not the time come when this ought to be considered?

Miss Pitt

No, Sir. Did I hear the hon. Member aright? Did he say "the worst paid"?

Mr. Hale

I did.

Miss Pitt

There have been a number of increases, including one as recently as December last year. The figures that I have given show that this is a well-paid job, and the fact that we are recruiting nurses confirms that.