asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the shortage of female nurses at the Dundee Mental Hospital branch of Liff, as at present there are only 20 female nurses looking after 300 patients; and what steps he is taking to remedy this.

I am informed that, while there are only 20 female nurses on the permanent staff, there are also three full-time and 15 part-time temporary nurses at the hospital referred to. With regard to the last part of the Question, I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to his Question on 2nd July.

While appreciating that answer, may I ask the Minister if he would look into the case of the female nurses serving in this mental hospital, because I believe that there is considerable hardship experienced by them, owing to the lack of staff?

In view of the supplementary question, I will take particular note of this matter and have inquiries made.