HC Deb 22 December 1965 vol 722 c2088
31. Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will initiate an independent inquiry into the pay, hours and working conditions of student nurses.

Mr. Ross

No, Sir. These are matters for the Whitley Council which covers the whole of Great Britain.

Mr. Hamilton

Does my right hon. Friend consider it satisfactory that these hard-working girls should be paid less than 2s. an hour net? Will he reconsider their position or at least send to the Whitley Council the massive correspondence which I have had on this issue from these girls, who are often afraid to speak up for themselves lest they may be victimised in their respective hospitals?

Mr. Ross

I am perfectly sure that the Whitley Council is aware of these matters and is at present no doubt considering any proposals which are put to it on behalf of the nurses.