HC Deb 06 June 1946 vol 423 cc359-60W
49. Mr. Steele

asked the Minister of Labour if he has any statement to make regarding the recruitment of nurses; and if he will give approximate figures as to the number required to fill present requirements.

Mr. Isaacs

In collaboration with the other Departments concerned, steps are being taken by publicity and other means to encourage suitable men and women to take up training or employment in nursing and midwifery. The numbers recruited have been increasing for some months but many more are still required to meet the needs of the hospitals and other nursing services, and I would urge the importance of these services upon young people choosing their career as well as on those with nursing or midwifery qualifications they are not at present using. The number of vacancies notified to my Department at 13th May for all grades of nurses and midwives was 31,612.