asked the Secretary of State for Wales what is the policy of his Department with regard to female nurses who are entitled to retire at the age of 55 years but continue beyond the age of 60 years; and, in view of the difficulty of recruitment in certain areas, if he will take steps to encourage such female nurses to continue with their nursing services.

Employment beyond the normal retirement age is a matter for area health authorities, which will have regard both to local considerations, including recruitment, and to the wishes of the individual officer concerned.