HC Deb 10 May 1965 vol 712 cc30-1
43. Mr. Pavitt

asked the Minister of Health what support he will give to the Nottingham University study on the recruitment, training and demand for physiotherapists, radiographers, dieticians, occupational therapists and orthoptists; if he will request the University to supply him with a copy of this report; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. K. Robinson

My Department has given all the co-operation and guidance requested by the university; the study will take some time yet, but when it is completed I shall be getting a copy of the report.

Mr. Pavitt

May I ask my right hon. Friend not to await the report before coming forward with definite proposals to increase recruitment in all these professions supplementary to medicine, in view of the urgent need there is in most of these specialties?

Mr. Robinson

Efforts of that kind need not await the production of this report, but I am sure that the report when it comes will be a great assistance to us.

Mr. English

Will my right hon. Friend make it quite clear that the phraseology of this Question— if he will request the University to supply him with a copy of this report does not imply that there is any secrecy about it and that it was always intended that he should receive a copy of it?

Mr. Robinson

Yes, I am aware of that. It is a study sponsored by the Nuffield Provincial Hospitals Trust and there has been no request to my Department for funds.