Mr. R. Duckworthasked the Minister of Health whether he can state the number of public hospitals which are working, or intend to operate, a 48-hour week for nurses; and how these hours compare with those worked in voluntary hospitals?
§ Sir K. WoodI have no complete information as to the number of voluntary or municipal hospitals in which a 48-hour week is, or will shortly be, in force. This is one of the matters which, I have no1894W doubt, will be considered by the Interdepartmental committee which has just been set up in relation to nurses.
Mr. R. Duckworthasked the Minister of Health whether his Department is taking any steps alone or in conjunction with any other authorities to ensure a continuous supply of fully-trained nurses; and whether he can make any statement upon the whole position?
§ Sir K. WoodI would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given on the 4th instant to my hon. Friend the Member for Thirsk and Malton (Mr. Turton). The terms of reference of the committee mentioned in that reply cover the question raised by my hon. Friend.