§ Mr. Nigel GriffithsTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he announced the proposal to review nurse education; what date he set at that time for announcing the results of this review; and when he now expects to make this announcement.
§ Mr. Stewart[holding answer 27 May 1993]: Following the announcement by my right hon. Friend on 24 July 1992 that NHS trust status was no longer an option for colleges of nursing and midwifery currently managed by health boards, general managers were advised on 24 September 1992 that they should continue meanwhile to be responsible for the management of the colleges. At that time the Home and Health and Education Departments were instructed to under a review. Its aim was to assess the educational and financial implications of the broad range of options for the future management and resourcing of nursing and midwifery education in Scotland, with particular reference to the role of the NHS and further and higher education. While, at that time, it was hoped to reach firmer conclusions by the end of the financial year 1992–93, complex issues have emerged which require very careful consideration and in-depth scrutiny. The review is almost complete. Once the implications of the various options have been considered, my right hon. Friend will advise health boards of his decisions.