§ Mr. Sillarsasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received from the National Union of Public Employees with regard to staff living-in accommodation at Ailsa Hospital; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RossThe National Union of Public Employees has proposed that the lodging charges for resident nurses at Ailsa Hospital should be abated to take account of the unsatisfactory location of the residential accommodation.
Lodging charges are determined by the Nurses and Midwives Whitley Council, and there is no provision for adapting them to the standards of accommodation. Although Whitley agreements can be varied to meet special circumstances, there is no precedent for abating lodging charges in circumstances of this kind. The new residential block at the hospital should be ready for occupation in June, and I have not felt able to agree that special steps should be taken in the meantime.