HC Deb 19 June 1922 vol 155 cc821-2W
Mr. MYERS

asked the Minister of Health if a number of young men who have completed an apprenticeship in dentistry are unable to become registered as qualified dentists; and what steps can be taken, if any, as will ensure qualified apprentices entering the profession for which, at considerable trouble and expense, they have been specially trained?

Sir A. MOND

The average price per house of tenders approved in the month ending 1st June, 1922, was £404. This figure shows a reduction of 48 per cent. on the average for June, 1.919, and 57 per cent. on that for September, 1920, the month of the highest average.

Comparing June, 1922, with June, 1919— Per cent.
The average reduction in the rates of wages current is 6
The average reduction in the prices of materials is about 19
Comparing June, 1922, with September, 1920—
The average reduction in wages rates would be 33.5
The average reduction in prices of materials would be 37

If a fairly average proportion between the costs of labour, materials and other charges be taken in both cases, the percentage reductions on the price of the cottage due to the above would be as follows:

Sir A. MOND

In the case of persons aprenticed as dental mechanics, there is nothing in the Dentists Act to prevent them continuing to be employed as mechanics, but in future they will not be allowed to practise dentistry unless they are eligible for and succeed in passing the prescribed examination. If the hon. Member refers to pupils of unqualified practitioners, there is no provision for their registration unless they have been engaged in practice before the passing of the Act.