HC Deb 20 February 1924 vol 169 cc1770-1W
Dr. CHAPPLE

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that applicants for registration under the Nurses Registration Act, 1919, amended by a Rule passed in July, 1923, have been rejected on the ground that their applications should have been lodged before 14th July, 1923; and whether he will take the opinion of the Law Officers of the Crown as to the legality of this action of the General Nursing Council?

Mr. WHEATLEY

I am advised that the council have no power to admit applications for registration as existing nurses after 14th July, 1923, and I see no necessity for consulting the Law Officers of the Crown.

Dr. CHAPPLE

asked the Minister of Health whether he has evidence that many hospital-trained nurses have failed to register under the Nurses Registration Act, 1919, because of neglect to send in applications within the period prescribed by the Act; and, if so, will he consider an amending Bill extending this period?

Mr. WHEATLEY

There is no evidence that any appreciable number of trained nurses who desired to be registered failed to apply during the two years period allowed by the Act; and I see no necessity for amending legislation.