§ Mr. Meacherasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what estimate he makes of the number of agoraphobics in Great Britain; how many are estimated to be receiving medical treatment under the NHS and how many privately.
§ Sir K. JosephNo reliable evidence is available to base an estimate of the prevalence of agoraphobia. Separate figures are not maintained of the numbers of patients receiving treatment for this disorder.
§ Mr. Meacherasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what instructions he has sent to local authorities regarding the identification of agoraphobics living in their areas for the purposes of implementing the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970; and what criteria he has issued as guidelines for their identification;
(2) if agoraphobia is within the definition of disablement for the purposes of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act, especially regarding the provision of telephones.
§ Sir K. JosephI will send the information to the hon. Member.