§ 80. Mr. K. Robinsonasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that the nurse recruitment situation has substantially improved but that many hospital management committees have insufficient funds to take advantage of this; what representations he has received in this connection; and, in view of the widespread shortage of nurses, what steps he will take to ensure that suitable potential recruits are not permanently lost to the nursing profession.
§ Mr. PowellI have been informed that the increase in nursing staff has been continuing. I have no doubt that hospital authorities are giving it due priority within their financial allocations.
§ Dame Irene Wardasked the Minister of Health what financial provision is being made for hospital management committees to meet the salary award by the Industrial Court to the nursing profession; and if he will give an assurance that there will be no reduction of establishment by refusal to permit the filling of vacancies.
§ Mr. PowellAllocations will be increased to meet in full the increase in staff costs resulting from the award.30W Hospital authorities will continue to be free to fill vacancies within their financial allocations.
§ Dame Irene Wardasked the Minister of Health if he will give an assurance that the management side of the Whitley Council for the nursing profession will be allowed freedom to negotiate salary scales for trained staff commensurate with their responsibility.
§ Mr. PowellYes, within reasonable limits.
§ Dame Irene Wardasked the Minister of Health what progress is being made with the improvement in grading and salary structure in the nursing profession as recommended by the Industrial Court.
§ Mr. PowellNegotiations are proceeding in the Whitley Council.