HC Deb 15 February 1960 vol 617 cc943-4
29. Mr. Goodhart

asked the Minister of Health how many beds reserved for mentally defective patients in institutions controlled by the South-East Metropolitan Regional Hospital Board are out of commission because of shortage of staff.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Miss Edith Pitt)

173.

Mr. Goodhart

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the number of these beds is almost exactly equal to the number of mentally sick children on the waiting list for admission to these hospitals? Can he assure me that every step is being taken to try to recruit the necessary staff?

Miss Pitt

Yes, every step that is possible has been taken. I think my hon. Friend will be glad to hear that, since last September, the board has been able to open 37 more beds in this hospital where the shortage arises.