HC Deb 29 October 1956 vol 558 cc1061-2
34. Mr. Edward Evans

asked the Minister of Health how many children in the area of the East Suffolk local authority are awaiting admission to suitable institutions for mental disability; how many names are on the waiting list; what is the yearly rate of clearance from the list; and whether he is satisfied that there is sufficient accommodation available now or in the near future.

Miss Hornsby-Smith

There are eighteen children in the area who are on the list for admission to a hospital for mental defectives, the list containing 23 names of persons of all ages. Since 1951, the average annual rate of clearance from the list has been ten. There is a shortage of accommodation of this type, but additional beds have been and are being provided.

Mr. Evans

Is the hon. Lady aware of the very poignant cases which I have remitted to her? Is she satisfied that in a reasonable time there will be some alleviation of the distress of people who are very often elderly and who, in looking after growing lads approaching manhood, undergo a terrible strain?

Miss Hornsby-Smith

During recent years additional beds in this area have become available at the rate of approximately 50 a year, and work of adaptation is at present proceeding at Lothingland, which will bring another 60 beds when completed.