HC Deb 20 July 1959 vol 609 cc858-9
14. Mr. Chetwynd

asked the Minister of Health what hospital accommodation is available for mentally defective children in County Durham; what is the waiting list for admission; and what is being done to improve the position.

Mr. R. Thompson

There are now 400 mentally defective children in hospital in County Durham and 85 on the county council's waiting list. In addition to the expansion of hospital accommodation referred to in my reply to the hon. Member's Question on 10th November, 1958, further work has been authorised at Prudhoe hospital at an estimated cost of nearly £500,000.

Mr. Chetwynd

In spite of these very welcome improvements, is the hon. Gentleman aware that there is still a grave shortage of accommodation for these people? Will he pay particular attention to the case which I sent to the Minister a few days ago concerning a boy in a children's home who is a menace to the health of the other people there?

Mr. Thompson

Yes, Sir.