HC Deb 25 January 1957 vol 563 cc90-1W
Mr. Dodds

asked the Minister of Health what was the number of persons detained under the Mental Deficiency Acts on 31st December, 1945, 1950, 1952, 1955 and 1956.

Mr. Vosper

The following are the figures:

  • On 31st December, 1945–55,336
  • On 31st December, 1950–59,417
  • On 31st December, 1952–61,211
  • On 31st December, 1955–63,255

I regret the figures for 1956 are not yet available.

Mr. Dodds

asked the Minister of Health the number of persons detained under the Lunacy Acts on 31st December 1945, 1950, 1952, 1955 and 1956.

Mr. Vosper

The following is the reply:

  • On 31st December, 1945–130,462
  • On 31st December, 1950–120,698
  • On 31st December, 1952–117,948
  • On 31st December, 1955–110,788

I regret the figures for 1956 are not yet available.

Mr. Dodds

asked the Minister of Health how many persons in mental institutions, up to the latest convenient date, were detained under the Mental Deficiency Acts for other reasons than being mentally defective.

Mr. Vosper

I am not aware of any such persons.