HC Deb 06 March 1956 vol 549 cc1916-7
40. Miss Herbison

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many mentally-defective persons are awaiting admission to an institution in each of the areas covered by a regional board; and what is the extent of shortage of staff in each area.

Mr. J. Stuart

There are 900 names on waiting lists in the Western Region, 302 in the South-East, 192 in the East, eighty in the North-East, and seven in the North. Admissions are limited by staff shortage only in the South-East, where a 40-bed ward at Gogarburn has not been in use for many years.

Miss Herbison

Since in most instances admission is not limited because of the lack of beds, what steps are being taken at present to provide accommodation for these children and young people? Is the Secretary of Slate aware that in every case this represents tragedy not only for the young persons affected, but also for the families?

Mr. Stuart

I admit that the basic need is for more accommodation. During 1955 we achieved an increase of 200 staffed beds, and in 1956 extensions are to be started at Banff, Dundee, and Larbert, which will make a further 850 places available.