asked the Secretary of State for Social Services why his Department is unwilling to issue official guidelines on contractual arrangements for student nurses.

My Department issued a model contract of employment for NHS staff in 1972 and amended this in 1974. Further information was given in circular HC(76)35 issued in July this year, and I am sending a copy of this to the right hon. Gentleman.Within the guidelines in this model the detail of individual contracts is a matter for employing authorities and employees, but my officials are always willing to advise on individual cases. In the case of student nurses detailed guidance has been issued by the General Nursing Council.