§ 10. Mr. Hardyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received in regard to the Briggs Report where this concerned the training, status and future description of district health visitors.
§ Mr. AlisonWe have received a number of representations expressing concern over these points. These will be considered along with all other comments received on the report.
§ Mr. HardyIs the hon. Gentleman aware of the very real anxiety which is felt by district health visitors about this matter? Can he offer an assurance now, or will he do so very soon, that the decisions that will be made following the Briggs Report recommendations will not give the district health visitors cause for very real disappointment or a feeling that their valuable occupation is in any way disadvantaged?
§ Mr. AlisonI cannot commit myself in advance of the consultations which the Government entered into with the interested parties immediately following publication of the report. I can, however, assure the hon. Gentleman that the anxieties expressed have been received and understood and that the consultations will certainly circle around these anxieties.