§ Mr. Roseasked the Secretary of State for Social Services why a nurse working 40 hours per week is classed as a part-time employee; why nursing staff work for 42 hours excluding meals while technical and administrative hospital staff work for 38 hours including meals; and whether he will re-examine the position in connection with superannuation and conditions of hospital service.
§ Mr. CrossmanNurses' working hours are determined by the Nurses and Midwives Whitley Council and are at present 84 per fortnight, excluding mealtimes. The 38-hour week of the other staff referred to also excludes mealtimes. A nurse working less than 84 hours per fortnight is regarded as a part-time employee for pay purposes. The position of part-time employee in relation to the National Health Service Superannuation Scheme will be considered as part of the review of that scheme now being undertaken in the light of the Government's proposals for national superannuation.