HC Deb 30 July 1962 vol 664 c9
28. Mr. Hocking

asked the Minister of Health what was the total number of hospital beds available in Coventry in August, 1939; and what is the number available today.

Mr. Powell

1,108 and 811, with a further 324 beds outside the city which serve Coventry.

Mr. Hocking

Is my right hon. Friend aware that during this period, from 1939 to the present day, there have been an additional 100,000 people moving into the city? Could he provide some temporary accommodation to save the relatives having to go so far in order to visit their kith and kin in hospital, and save them these long journeys?

Mr. Powell

As my hon. Friend knows, the temporary replacement for the war-destroyed (hospital accommodation was, and indeed had to be, outside the city. The object now is to build a great new hospital inside the city, and I hope that early next year building will start on a new hospital with nearly 800 beds.

29. Mr. Hocking

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware of the demand and need for a diabetic clinic in Coventry; and what action he proposes to take with regard to this matter.

Mr. Powell

I am advised that adequate facilities for the treatment of diabetics are available in Coventry.