HC Deb 25 June 1942 vol 380 cc2130-1
7. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Minister of Health how many authorities have secured residences suitable for the accommodation of blind people in a non-institutional atmosphere: and whether he has considered encouraging or promoting schemes for that purpose?

Mr. E. Brown

I have no precise information, but I believe that the number of such authorities is five. In most areas the number of blind persons needing residential accommodation is very small, and his accommodation is often best provided at homes established by voluntary organisations. For this reason, and because of the present scarcity of suitable premises, I should not feel justified in making any general recommendation in the sense suggested by my hon. Friend.

Mr. Sorensen

While thanking the right hon. Gentleman for his Reply, may I ask whether he agrees that, where there is a demand for this kind of accommodation for blind people he will give it every encouragement?

Mr. Brown

It is a good idea. There are three cases in which local authorities do this themselves and two where they take joint action. That is my information.

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