§ 5. Mr. Hugh Fraserasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the shortage of chiropodists in Staffordshire for the implementation of an extended service for young people there, under the County Council's prophylactic foot-care scheme, he will permit chiropodists who have failed to achieve State registration but who have been in practice for 10 years prior to the beginning of the registration scheme, or who have worked satisfactorily for Government Departments, to be now employed locally by the National Health Service.
§ Mr. LoughlinNo, Sir.
§ Mr. FraserIs the hon. Member aware that in Stafford today we are being denied the extension of a scheme for the foot care of the young and, at the same time, that because of the regulations at least one chiropodist is now on National Assistance pay? Surely this is entirely wrong. One man is being deprived of his livelihood and the whole area is being deprived of his services. Surely the Minister will make the concession that I have asked for.
§ Mr. LoughlinWe are not aware of any shortage of chiropodists in the employment of Staffordshire County Council and I understand that demands for treatment are generally being met. I think that the hon. Member will agree that State registration is desirable. It was introduced by the previous Minister. I am not prepared to comment on a case arising out of a Question of this kind.