§ Mr. Patrick Jenkinasked the Secretary of State for Social Services when he expects to seek parliamentary approval for the right to practise of male midwives.
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§ Mr. EnnalsIn the Sex Discrimination Act 1975—Schedule 4 paragraph 3—the Secretary of State was given the power during a transitional period to approve centres where men could be trained and employed as midwives. Two centres have been approved. This is intended to enable the Government to gauge the demand and obtain evidence on the practical problems of training and subsequent employment of male midwives.
The first two pupil male midwives are now completing training. When I have evidence on male midwifery practice as well as training, I shall bring the matter back to the House.