§ Mr. Nicholas BennettTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is the total number of places available to state enrolled nurses to convert to registered general nurses in 1989 and 1990; what is the average waiting time for successful applicants; and if there are any plans to increase the number of places available for state enrolled nurses wishing to undertake the conversion courses to registered general nurses.
§ Mr. GristThe number of places available to second level general nurses to convert to first level general nurses in Wales in 1989 and 1990 is as follows:
Information about the average waiting time for successful applicants is not held centrally.
- 1989—130
- 1990—142 (to date)
The Government's response to Project 2000 stressed the need to increase the number of second level nurse conversion courses, and the United Kingdom Central Council and the Welsh National Board for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting are examining the provision for more flexible modes of conversion. Health authorities in Wales have been encouraged to increase opportunities for second level nurse conversion wherever possible.