§ 11. Mr. Eadieasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many nurses in the National Health Service in England and Wales have written contracts of service that give approval to doing work in private medical practice; and what is the average percentage of both.
§ Sir K. JosephThis information is not readily available.
§ Mr. Eadieis not such an answer most unsatisfactory, as there have been many discussions in the House about fees paid in relation to contracts split up by consultants? Will the Secretary of State give an assurance for the benefit of the House that he will look into the matter and let us have the information available so that the House can make some judgment or assessment?
§ Sir K. JosephNo, Sir.
§ Dr. SummerskillIn view of the chronic shortage of nurses in the National Health Service, will the Secretary of State discourage nurses from entering private practice by encouraging adequate remuneration and good conditions of employment within the National Health Service?
§ Sir K. JosephI have done that.