HC Deb 08 April 1943 vol 388 cc829-30W
Mr. Price

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that there is a serious shortage of midwives in parts of Gloucestershire; that the Public Health Committee has had to refuse applications for admission to local hospitals because of this; and whether he will consult with the Minister of Labour with a view to directing those midwives that are available to employment in the most necessitous areas?

Mr. E. Brown

I am well aware of the shortage of midwives not only in Gloucestershire but in the country generally. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and National Service has, in consultation with me, set up a National Advisory Council to advise him on the recruitment and distribution of midwives and nurses. On the advice of this Council a special registration of midwives and nurses is to be held on 10th April. I hope that following this registration action may be taken which will, to some extent, relieve the present shortage.

Mr. Lipson

asked the Minister of Health whether he has now considered the representations made to him relating to the shortage of midwives at maternity hospitals and units, and also to undertake domiciliary midwifery in the county of Gloucester; and what action he proposes to take?

Mr. Brown

There is a general shortage of midwives for both institutional and domiciliary work. As my hon. Friend is aware, my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and National Service has, in consultation with me, set up a National Advisory Council to advise him on the recruitment and distribution of midwives and nurses. On the advice of this Council, a special registration of midwives and nurses is to be held on 10th April. I hope that following this registration it may be possible to take action which will to some extent relieve the present shortage.