§ 51. Mr. SORENSENasked the Minister of Health the number of mental defectives in England and Wales during the last week in 1935; how many of these were in institutions; and how many had been recommended for beds but for whom there was no accommodation?
§ Sir K. WOODThe figures showing the position at the end of 1935 are not yet complete, but on the 1st January, 1935, the number of mental defectives in England and Wales ascertained by local authorities under the Mental Deficiency Acts was 110,530, of whom 37,987 were in institutions. With regard to the last part of the question, on the date mentioned there were 2,802 patients awaiting removal to institutions, but, in the meantime, receiving statutory supervision at the hands of the local authorities.
§ Mr. SORENSENMay I ask what steps the right hon. Gentleman is taking in order to induce the responsible authorities to make provision for these unfortunate people?
§ Sir K. WOODI think that for the most part the local authorities are endeavouring to carry out their duties. The hon. Gentleman will see that I have said in my answer that, where patients have to wait for treatment, other steps are taken.
§ Mr. SORENSENIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that many of these local authorities desire to build further accommodation, but cannot do so because of financial difficulties; and will he further assist them in that direction?
§ Sir K. WOODThat is a very broad question. If the hon. Gentleman has any 2306 particular case in mind, I should be glad to look into it.
§ Mr. SORENSENIs the right hon. Gentleman referring to individual cases, or to institutions?
§ Sir K. WOODWhatever information the hon. Gentleman has, I shall be glad to receive it.