"The Prime Minister launched the Commission on the Future of Nursing and Midwifery in England on March 10, 2009. It covers England only, and considers midwifery and all branches of nursing, in all settings, services and sectors. The PM asked the Commission to do the following: ?Identify the competencies, skills and support that frontline nurses and midwives ?Identify any barriers that impede the pivotal role that ward sisters/charge nurses/community team leaders provide. ?Identify the potential and benefits for nurses and midwives, particularly in primary and community care, of leading and managing their own services. ?Engage with the professions, patients and the public to identify challenges and opportunities for nurses and midwives." (excerpt from Press release)