HC Deb 28 June 1951 vol 489 cc1559-60
22. Mr. Yates

asked the Minister of Health how many hospital beds are available in Birmingham for chronic sick persons; if he will state the number of patients at present awaiting admission: and what steps are being taken to overcome the existing shortage of beds.

Mr. Marquand

There are 1,595 beds and a waiting list of 188. A new unit of 20 beds will be opened shortly. The regional hospital board are seeking to recruit more nurses and thus make more beds available.

Mr. Yates

Is the Minister aware that considerable anxiety is being experienced at the length of time which people are having to wait before they can be admitted to hospital? Is he satisfied that the regional hospital boards could not consider an improvement in this position?

Mr. Marquand

Yes, Sir. I am satisfied that the regional boards are considering the matter. Here again, as in so many cases, we have improved on the conditions which we found when we established the Health Service.