HC Deb 16 December 1963 vol 686 cc157-8W
57 and 58. Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Minister of Health (1) to what extent the recruitment of consultants and mid- wives falls short of what is needed to give full personal care and attention to mothers and babies in all maternity hospitals; and how the shortage is to be made good;

(2) what are the latest estimates made of consultants, senior obstetric staff and midwives required both for present needs and the expected increase in maternity care in coming years; and whether such estimates have taken account of the higher percentage of mothers now recognised to be in need of hospital delivery.

61. Mr. Edelman

asked the Minister of Health, in view of the fact that since 1959 the number of births has risen 10.9 per cent. but the number of consultants and other senior obstetric staff or whole time equivalents has risen by only 1.84 per cent., what action he is taking to appoint more obstetric specialists.

Mr. Barber

The reports of the hospital Boards on medical staffing are now being considered with representatives of the profession. I am considering ways of increasing the number of practising mid-wives.

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