§ 9. Mr. Hardyasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the number of psychiatrists and psychologists currently employed in his Department and the number he expects to appoint during the next two years.
§ Mr. RipponFour, Sir. I do not expect to make any further appointments during the next two years.
§ Mr. HardyIs not that rather odd, in view of the Community's proposals that there shall be stringent harmonisation of driving licences throughout the Community very soon, which will involve medical and psychiatric examination? Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman consult a psychiatrist to ascertain whether this expensive proposal is at all realistic?
§ Mr. RipponUnfortunately, we do not employ any psychiatrists. I am aware of the draft Community directive, but it is only in draft, and there is no indication yet of what the proposed tests or standards will be. Therefore, that situation can be allowed to develop.
§ Mr. LoughlinWill the right hon. and learned Gentleman reconsider the number of psychiatrists that he proposes to appoint and attach a psychiatrist to the county planning authorities, so that we can begin to understand some of the schizophrenic attitudes to planning applications?
§ Mr. RipponI would do almost anything to help the hon. Gentleman to understand, but I do not think that it can be done at public expense.