§ 28. Mr. PALINasked the Minister of Health what number of casual wards in various parts of the country have been closed within the past two years; and whether, in view of the over-crowding in the remaining casual wards and the long distances between one casual ward and another, it is possible to make adequate provision for persons applying to such wards, in view of their statutory right to receive bed and board for the immediate relief of their destitution?
§ 29. Mr. GRUNDYasked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been called to the frequent closing of casual wards throughout the country, while at the same time conditions of serious overcrowding are reported in numerous casual wards; whether he will institute an inquiry into the sufficiency or otherwise of the accommodation throughout the country for persons desiring to use the casual wards; and, if it be found that such acommodation is insufficient, will he take steps to prevent the further closing of casual wards and, if necessary, to secure their re-opening in certain areas?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Sir Kingsley Wood)The total number of casual wards in England and Wales closed in the last two years is 12. In every case the possible effect of such closing on the casual wards of neighbouring unions was fully considered before permission to close was given As my right hon. Friend 1681 recently informed the hon. Member for Houghton-le-Spring, boards of guardians have been required to re-open casual wards which have been closed, or to build new or extended wards wherever it seemed desirable.