§ Mr. Hordernasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many people were employed in the National Health Service on 1 June 1960, 1 June 1970 and 1 June 1980.
§ Dr. VaughanIt is not possible to answer the question in the precise form requested because of lack of information for 1960 and 1970 and problems of coverage and comparability. The earliest year for which a realistic comparison of staff can be made is 1971; the latest year for which comparable and complete information is available is 1978, although it is possible to provide an estimate of staff for 1979. Figures for 1 June are not available. The table below sets out the information.
a view to introducing the revised arrangements early in the new year.