5.
asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if, in view of the shortage of junior medical staff in the hospital service, of the over-dependence of the hospital service on Commonwealth doctors, of the shortage of doctors in many Commonwealth and Colonial Territories, and of the overcrowding of British medical schools, he will initiate discussions with the University Grants Committee with a view to providing increased grants for new medical schools in suitable universities.
Discussion of this matter would be premature until the review to which my right hon. Friend, the Minister of Health, referred on 5th June, has been completed.
Does the hon. Gentleman realise that this is a very urgent matter? The damage done by the Willink Report has been very considerable. Will he encourage the Minister of Health to get a move on with this so that action can be taken?
I agree that this is an important matter and I am sure that all concerned will take due note of the point the hon. Member has made.