HC Deb 30 July 1957 vol 574 cc1056-7
38. Mr. Pryde

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many mentally-handicapped children are awaiting institutional care and attention in Midlothian, as at May, 1957.

Mr. Maclay

Nineteen, Sir.

Mr. Pryde

Does the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that as such a child grows older there is grave danger to the other members of the family? Will he make a point of expediting the building of special hospitals for this purpose?

Mr. Maclay

The need for more accommodation for mental defectives is very fully appreciated, and it is receiving fair priority among the many other pressing demands in the service.

Miss Herbison

Can the right hon. Gentleman tell us whether all the beds which are available are being used, or whether some beds are still empty because of the shortage of nurses?

Mr. Maclay

I should like notice of that question.