asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware of a Government Bill introduced in the Jamaica Legislative Council to compel midwifery candidates to undergo a preliminary three-years nursing training; whether he is aware that this extra training will seriously limit the number of available midwives; and whether, in view of the danger of compelling Jamaican women to accept the assistance of un- trained midwives, he will take steps to allow midwives to practise who may only possess a midwifery training?

I am aware that a law has recently been passed in Jamaica under which no person who is not a certificated nurse with three years training will be eligible for registration as a midwife after the 1st of July, 1940. I am advised that the Government of Jamaica are satisfied that an adequate supply of midwives will be maintained under the new regulations, but that should there be any signs of a shortage, steps would be taken to increase the facilities for training.