HC Deb 19 March 1973 vol 853 c31W
Dr. Summerskill

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many hospital beds in England and Wales are provided for alcoholics at present; and how many more are planned.

Sir K. Joseph

Following my announcement in November 1970 that an extra £2 million was being allocated over four years for services for alcoholics, facilities are being expanded. There are at present 17 specialised units in England and one in Wales for the treatment of alcohol dependence providing a total of 389 beds. Six units are planned in England to provide a further 104 beds. In addition most psychiatric hospitals and units can treat alcoholics.