§ Mr. Hayhoeasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) whether she has seen the statement dated 23rd February 1976 issued by the South Hammersmith Community Health Council about elderly people being denied access to National Health services to which they are entitled; and what action she proposes to take;
(2) whether she is satisfied that proper National Health Service provision is being made available to elderly people in the South Hammersmith Health District.
§ Dr. OwenI have seen the statement which was issued to the Press on 23rd February and only subsequently seen by the area health authority on 26th February 1976. I have asked for a report and when I have received this I will write to the hon. Member. The ratio of geriatric 481W beds to population in the South Hammersmith district is less than the recommended target and the area health authority is currently seeking ways to increase the number. Any firm proposals will be the subject of consultation with, amongst others, the community health council. The area health authority together with the London Borough of Hammersmith, is also studying the relationship between residential home facilities with appropriate community health service support, and hospital bed provision.