§ Mr. Pavittasked the Secretary of State for the Social Services what guidance he gives to area health authorities about the use of hire cars as a result of the shortage of ambulance drivers; what current shortages exist in the stalling of the ambulance service; and if he will ensure that urgent steps are taken to improve recruitment to the service.
§ Sir George YoungHealth authorities are responsible for deciding the form of transport to be provided for patients; no central guidance has been issued on the use of hire cars. Authorities are also responsible for determining staff complements and details of vacancies are not held centrally. Ambulancemen's pay and conditions of service were examined last year by the Standing Commission on pay comparability whose recommendations for substantial increases in pay were accepted by the Government and should help local recruitment. A subsequent pay offer for 1980 is with the trade unions.