HC Deb 20 July 1959 vol 609 c844
2. Captain Pilkington

asked the Minister of Health how many homes for old and disabled persons existed at the end of 1951 and at the end of June, 1959.

Mr. Walker-Smith

One thousand, six hundred and forty-five and about 3,160, respectively.

Captain Pilkington

Can my right hon. and learned Friend give an assurance that the Government will carry this good work on in the 'sixties?

Mr. Walker-Smith

Yes, I am happy to give my hon. and gallant Friend that assurance.

Mr. Blenkinsop

Will the Minister tell his hon. and gallant Friend also the number of old people there are now compared with 1951, and, perhaps, the number of old people who are dying now as compared with 1951—all interesting information?

Mr. Walker-Smith

I am happy to say that it is, of course, a fact that in the last eight years the expectation of life of people in this country has increased. People are living longer, they are living in better conditions, and more have been housed in these homes.