asked the Minister of Education what is the number of schools the curricula of which include nursing.

Precise information is not available but a large number of secondary schools provide preparatory courses for pupils who intend to enter the nursing profession.

Will my right hon. Friend consider issuing a circular to all local education authorities pointing out the advantages of including nursing in their curricula so that, in two or three years, the obvious shortage of nurses which now exists will be alleviated?

In the short time available, I have tried to ascertain whether these courses either in schools or in technical colleges meet the demand. The best of my information to date is that they do, but, in view of my hon. Friend's Question, I will keep the matter under review.