§ Mr. Bishopasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what are the figures relating to the need for qualified student nurses in each category of the hospital services; if she will encourage hospital authorities to adjust their requirements in order that more qualified married women are encouraged to return to the service; and if she will undertake a study of further steps that could be taken to attract qualified married nurses into hospital service.
§ Dr. OwenNo realistic estimate of the numbers required is available. The employment of married nurses is encouraged and at 30th September 1973, 43 per cent. of the qualified nurses and midwives in National Health Service hospitals in England and Wales were employed on a part-time basis. If my hon. Friend is aware of any particular difficulty perhaps he will let me know.