§ Mr. Deakinsasked the Prime Minister what benefits in kind are available to National Health Service nurses; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterThe following benefits in kind are currently available under the terms of nationally negotiated agreements:
- (i) Accommodation charges—students, pupils and other nurses under age 22 receive an automatic reduction of 40 per cent. of their charges, at present worth over £300 per annum per person.
- (ii) Meals—all nursing staff have a right of access to meals within National Health Service facilities at subsidised prices.
Nurses who are required to wear uniforms receive them free and have them laundered at the expense of the health authority, but we regard this as the consequence of a condition of service rather than a benefit in kind.