50. Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the Minister of Health what steps have been taken to implement the recommendations of the Cohen Report on the care of epileptics; and what plans he has to develop further the existing facilities and services for epileptics within the National Health Service.
§ Mr. K. RobinsonI would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave on 29th March to my hon. Friend the Member for Wandsworth, Central (Dr. David Kerr). My Standing Medical Advisory Committee has been asked to advise on future developments.
Mr. TaylorIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that a good number of the sheltered workshops which provide employment for the more serious cases of epilepsy are in old and inadequate buildings? Will he make a survey of the existing buildings to see what help might be given?
§ Mr. RobinsonI would rather await the advice of my Standing Medical Advisory Committee. After the necessary consultations have been carried out, I hope to be able to give further guidance on the health and welfare aspects of the care of epileptics.
§ Mr. Francis Noel-BakerWill my right hon. Friend put to his committee that the employment opportunities for epileptics whom treatment makes suitable for a variety of jobs are quite inadequate at present and the green card is often more a hindrance than a help?
§ Mr. RobinsonI shall consider the point which my hon. Friend makes.