HC Deb 13 February 1967 vol 741 cc92-3
32. Mr. David Griffiths

asked the Minister of Health if he will give the number of dentists in the Rother Valley constituency in 1961 and in each year, to the most recent date.

Mr. Snow

As the Answer contains a number of figures I will, with permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. Griffiths

Although I do not know the figures, is my hon. Friend aware that we are very alarmed, particularly in the West Riding and the Rother Valley, at the lack of dentists, especially school dentists? What incentive will the Minister give to get them to industrial areas rather than having an abundance of them in wealthy areas?

Mr. Snow

As my hon. Friend will know, my right hon. Friend has no power to direct dentists to any particular areas, but executive councils have been asked to try to encourage dentists to practise in those areas of shortage.

Following is the information:

The number of dentists providing general dental services in the constituency on 30th September each year was:

1961 … … … 5
1962 … … … 6
1963 … … … 5
1964 … … … 5
1965 … … … 4
1966 … … … 4
1967 (January) … … … 5