§ Mr. Masonasked the Minister of Health what action has already been taken in reply to recommendations made to him in June, 1953, by the chairmen of the hospital management committees of the Sheffield Regional Board; what other points are under consideration; and what action is contemplated.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodI assume the hon. Member is referring to recommendations regarding junior hospital medical staff which were conveyed to me by the Sheffield Regional Hospital Board in August of this year. I understand that two of these recommendations came from the chairmen of the Board's hospital management committees, one on scales of remuneration and one suggesting the employment of experienced medical officers to supervise work in casualty departments. The question of86W remuneration is before the appropriate Whitley Council: as regards the second point, I have indicated to hospital boards that I am prepared to approve the appointment of casualty officers of senior standing in appropriate circumstances. I am discussing with the profession other aspects of the shortage of junior hospital medical staff, but I am not yet ready to make a statement.