16. Mr. Slaterasked the Minister of Health how many rehabilitation centres were taken over by his Department through the introduction of the National Health Service Act; and what plans he has for extending this service.
§ The Minister of Health (Mr. Iain Macleod)On the introduction of the National Health Service, in addition to some 300 hospitals with facilities for rehabilitation, eight residential rehabilitation centres were taken over; seven residential centres for the rehabilitation of miners have since been brought within the Service. There are now 475 hospitals with facilities for rehabilitation, and hospital authorities are encouraged to develop these facilities so far as their resources allow.
Mr. SlaterWould the Minister circulate a statement in the Official Report to show where these rehabilitation centres are that have been taken over, and his proposals for extending these services?
§ Mr. MacleodI am very happy to take any convenient way of giving the House information. If the hon. Gentleman puts down a Written Question I can then circulate the answer in the Official Report.
§ Mr. ChetwyndIs the Minister aware of the anxiety expressed by the Tees-side hospital authorities about the shortage of adequate facilities which have resulted in tens of thousands of man hours being lost each year in that area and has he received any representations from Newcastle-upon-Tyne?
§ Mr. MacleodNo representations have been received, so far as I am aware. The figures I have given of increase from 300 to 475 hospitals are most impressive. There may well be difficult periods. If the hon. Member likes to write to me about the matter I will take it up.