HC Deb 02 July 1936 vol 314 cc597-8
41. Mr. LOGAN

asked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been drawn to a document issued by the Liverpool City Council calling attention to the overcrowded state of the mental unit at the Swithdown Road Hospital, Liverpool; and what action, if any, does he intend to take to end this congestion?

Sir K. WOOD

I am aware of the facts to which the hon. Member refers. The overcrowding at this institution is due to the general shortage of mental hospital accommodation in the area served by the Lancashire Mental Hospitals Board. Schemes are already in progress for the provision of additional accommodation, which should relieve this congestion.

Mr. LOGAN

Does the right hon. Gentleman think it right that boys and girls should be certified for a fortnight to keep them within the law for detention, and does he not think these cases ought to be lodged as casuals; and does he think it right that this condition of things should go on for seven years and the place be overcrowded simply because of the expense that may be incurred by the authorities in putting up the necessary accommodation?

Sir K. WOOD

If those were the facts, I should much regret them, but I am glad to say that steps are now being taken which I hope will meet the difficulty.

Mr. E. J. WILLIAMS

Could not hon. Members opposite have their attention drawn to these facts?