HC Deb 02 December 1957 vol 579 cc7-8W
80. Mr. V. Yates

asked the Minister of Health when it is proposed to commence building the new dental hospital in Birmingham; and when the building is likely to be completed.

Mr. Walker-Smith

I am not yet able to say.

81. Mr. V. Yates

asked the Minister of Health how many patients are at present on the waiting list at the Birmingham Dental Hospital; why the waiting list for fillings was recently closed; and how long patients must at present wait before receiving treatment.

Mr. Walker-Smith

2,217. The waiting list for fillings was recently closed because of pressure on the hospital. The waiting time for treatment varies according to the department: urgent extractions may be done on the day of application, but the waiting time for conservation may be as long as nine months.

82. Mr. V. Yates

asked the Minister of Health how many places will be available for students at the Birmingham Dental Hospital in 1958; how many applications for such places have been received; and what action he is taking to ensure the training of more dentists.

Mr. Walker-Smith

In 1958 there will be 40 places available at Birmingham for students in their first year of dentistry. More than 100 applications for these places have so far been received.

The University Grants Committee is at present consulting universities about additional places for dental students in the light of the Report of the McNair Committee on Recruitment to the Dental Profession.