§ 47. Mr. Edward Evansasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the difficulty in providing hospital accommodation in the East Suffolk area in respect of acute cases of mental defect among young persons and children; and, in view of the fact that this matter has been repeatedly brought to his attention by the hon. Member for Lowestoft, if he will take urgent action to provide such additional accommodation as will relieve the distress caused by the shortage of permanent residential accommodation.
§ Mr. Walker-SmithI am aware of the position in East Suffolk. A considerable number of new beds have been provided, and further important developments are proposed.
§ Mr. EvansIs the Minister aware of the very grave disability of some of the parents of children such as these who cannot possibly be adequately looked after at home? Is he not aware that, in the last case which I represented to him, the mother of the child was herself a cripple and could not lift the child and that they have been waiting for a place now for two years? Will he take urgent action to secure more accommodation for acute cases in East Anglia?
§ Mr. Walker-SmithProgress has been made since 1948. The regional board, as the hon. Member will know, has provided about 260 new beds for mental defectives. As he knows, there is also 617 a comprehensive scheme for development of the Little Plumpstead Hospital which should make a significant contribution.
§ Mr. Walker-SmithThe development will take place between this financial year and that of 1962–63, but I cannot identify precise years at present.