§ 6. Mr. Maclennanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will take steps to reduce the potential overcrowding at Craig Dunain Mental Hospital.
§ Mr. MonroSteps have already been taken to deal with the potential overcrowding at Craig Dunain Hospital. In 1969 the bed complement was 1,030 and the occupancy rate was 100.8 per cent. It is now 950 and the occupancy rate is 95 per cent. Also, provision has been made in Band V of the current major 465 building programme for improvements at this hospital to relieve overcrowding.
§ Mr. MaclennanThe Minister has admitted to me already that there is pressure on the space in the hospital. What immediate steps can he take to reduce it? Can he, for example, arrange for the transfer of those who can be suitably accommodated in geriatric homes? When will work begin on the extension in Band V to which he referred?
§ Mr. MonroAs the hon. Gentleman knows from the letter that I sent him a week or two ago, improvements costing £200,000 are in hand. The extensions will improve conditions in the hospital.
There are comparatively few patients who might be considered for transfer. They number about 20, and I do not think that the additional work involved in doing what the hon. Member suggests would be justified. In any event, the patients are comfortable there and we do not want to disturb elderly folk unnecessarily.
As for the hon. Gentleman's question about Band V, it is not, as he knows, the custom to give a starting date. But it is some years ahead yet.