HC Deb 13 March 1972 vol 833 cc19-20
26. Mr. Coleman

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what proposals he has to increase the number of hospital beds in the Neath area for geriatric occupation; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

A new geriatric unit of 30 beds will shortly be completed at Cymla Hospital, Neath.

Mr. Coleman

But is the hon. Gentleman aware that even with this welcome addition, which was provided as a result of the help of the Friends of the Neath Hospitals, there are increasing difficulties in the provision of geriatric accommodation in Neath? These increasing difficulties are being experienced by medical practitioners, consultants and the hospital management committee. Will the hon. Gentleman initiate discussions with the Welsh Hospital Board which will mean that we shall have greater provision of this kind of accommodation in the Neath hospitals in the near future?

Mr. Gibson-Watt

I share the hon. Member's concern about this matter. Although the number of geriatric beds in the area has risen from 69 in 1967 to 125 after the Cymla Hospital is built, it is still rather under the average. I accept what he says about the work done by the Friends of the Neath Hospitals. I am sure he will welcome the additional moneys which the Government have made available for the long-stay sector, which will help the geriatric services. Discussions such as the hon. Member asked about go on all the time.

Mr. Probert

This acute shortage also exists in my constituency, which is a neighbouring constituency to Neath. Only this morning at 8.30 I was in touch with the medical officer of health concerning two very tragic geriatric cases in my constituency.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

It is generally known throughout the country that the demand for geriatric services is growing.