HC Deb 29 July 1976 vol 916 cc866-7
20. Mr. Dunlop

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many teaching hospitals are located in the Mid-Ulster constituency.

Mr. Concannon

None for undergraduate medical training. Eleven postgraduate training posts are filled in hospitals in the constituency.

Mr. Dunlop

Is the Minister aware of the shortage of medical and para-medical staff in western Northern Ireland? Will he use his good offices and influence in the Government to try to alleviate that position, particularly as it effects consultant staff, although it also applies to ordinary medical staff?

Mr. Concannon

The provision of hospital services is not governed by my Department or the Government. Postgraduate medical training is governed by the medical profession—by the royal colleges in the specialties. The hon. Gentleman's question proves the necessity for the report on the development of hospital services, and that is one thing that we shall have to examine.