asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether, in view of the present uncertainty, it is proposed to give any further consideration to the rates of pay and conditions of service of unqualified nursing staff employed in the National Health Service.

I understand that the Nurses and Midwives Whitley Council are awaiting a claim from the staff side in respect of unqualified nurses, other than those in mental hospitals who have already been dealt with by the Council.

Is the hon. Lady aware that the unqualified nurses will be very gratified with her reply, because they have been waiting so long and were beginning to feel that they were nobody's babies? Will the Minister ensure that the question of retrospective payment is considered?

I am afraid that at the present time I cannot give them that assurance. The decision is made by the Whitley Council, on which the staff side is represented.