§ 5. Mr. Adam Hunterasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has had regarding the diminishing numbers of appropriately qualified registered nurses in Scottish hospitals providing for the mentally handicapped; and if he cm give an estimate of the position likely to obtain in the next few years.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Robert Hughes)None, Sir; but I am concerned about the position. My nursing advisers and the chief area nursing officers of health boards have set up a working party which is at present looking into the manpower aspects of 438 mental and mental deficiency nursing and will be reporting shortly.
§ Mr. HunterIs my hon. Friend aware that the matter is becoming serious? Fewer than 50 persons commenced training for this qualification in 1974 whereas there were 100 in 1972. Is he also aware that a number of factors—the Batchelor Report is one—discourage nurses in other specialities from going into hospitals for the mentally handicapped? To solve the problem, does he not agree that a six-month course for all registered nurses working in other sectors would be better than the present 18-month course?
§ Mr. HughesI am aware that the position generally with regard to recruitment is not ideal. Until recently we managed to keep recruitment just above replacement level. As regards training, I require notice before I can give an absolute answer. Certainly I shall consider my hon. Friend's suggestions.