HC Deb 13 July 1956 vol 556 cc54-5W
Mr. Collins

asked the Minister of Health the number of locum pharmacists who are employed in the hospital service; and the difference in the basic grade of salary between the permanent and locum pharmacists.

Mr. Turton

The information requested in the first part of the Question is not available; with regard to the second part, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Stoke-on-Trent Central (Dr. Stross) on 2nd July.

Mr. Collins

asked the Minister of Health how many pharmacists have been recruited to the permanent staff of the hospital service since the last salary award; what has been the net increase or decrease in the number of permanent hospital pharmacists during the last 12 months; and what is the number of vacancies for permanent pharmacists in the hospital service, at present unfilled.

Mr. Turton

I regret this information is not available.

Mr. Collins

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that many chief pharmacists are leaving the hospital service because they are unable properly to perform their duties because of the failure to recruit sufficient qualified staff in the pharmaceutical departments of hospitals; and what action he is taking in the matter.

Mr. Turton

I understand that two chief pharmacists have recently left the hospital service for other employment. I am not aware that the reason was as stated.