§ Mr. BurstowTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what action has been taken by his Department to implement the recommendations of the Audit Commission report, "Brief Encounters", on temporary nurses.[166404]
§ Mr. HuttonThe recommendations contained in "Brief Encounters" will be taken into account by the newly established NHS Professionals special health authority in its management of the national health service temporary labour market, in partnership with local NHS trusts and primary care trusts.
§ Mr. BurstowTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what the mandatory entry requirements are for nursing training(a) diplomas and (b) degrees. [166442]
§ Mr. HuttonCurrently, in line with Nursing and Midwifery Council standards, entry to nurse training programmes, either for pre-registration diplomas or pre-registration degrees, requires a statutory minimum of five GCSEs at grade A, B or C (or the equivalent). Midwifery programmes require the same statutory minimum. However, one qualification must be in a science subject.
These standards are due to change soon and the new arrangements will be in place for September, when specific education entry requirements will cease to apply. Applicants will be required to meet general education entry requirements that show their competence in literacy and numeracy, as well as providing evidence of good health and character.
Higher education institutions are expected to set their own additional entry requirements for degrees and diplomas.