§ Mr. Pavittasked the Minister of Health (1) if he will alter the grading structure for audiology technicians in accordance with the recommendations made by the Society of Audiology Technicians;
(2) how many audiology technicians are employed in the National Health Service; how many of these are fully qualified; what plans he has for the provision of training courses; and if he will make a statement;
(3) what plans he has to increase the recruitment of audiology technicians into the National Health Service.
§ Mr. BarberI am considering the Society's recommendations. The numbers in post on 30th September, 1962 were 228, the highest since the introduction of the Health service. No specific qualifications are required. In 1958 guidance on training was given to employing authorities and these arrangements are proving satisfactory.