§ 44. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the increasing number of mentally-deficient children for whom appropriate institutional treatment cannot be given; that many are sent to general public hospitals; and whether he will take steps to deal with this situation and make adequate provision for the post-war period?
§ Mr. E. BrownI am aware that there is at present a shortage of suitable institutional accommodation for mentally-defective children, with the result that they may be sent, as a temporary measure, to public general hospitals. The post-war needs in the matter of accommodation for mental defectives are already under consideration.
§ Mr. SorensenWhen can the right hon. Gentleman make some statement regarding post-war needs and the way they can be met? Meanwhile, cannot he do something to meet the very grave situation in regard to mental defectives?