HC Deb 26 July 1979 vol 971 cc487-8W
Mr. Maxwell-Hyslop

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is aware of the public antipathy to mixed hospital wards; and whether he will make a statement on Government policy in respect of mixed wards.

Dr. Vaughan

My right hon. Friend and I have received a very large number of complaints about mixed wards in hospitals.

They do arise not from intensive care units and wards with cubicles, but from the large open wards.

These wards cause considerable worry for some patients, especially where there are also shared bathrooms and toilets. I am therefore taking steps so that health authorities do not continue this practice.

Mr. David Price

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is his policy towards the increase in the number of mixed wards within National Health Service hospitals; and what guidance he is prepared to offer area and regional health authorities in this matter.

Mr. Spence

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is his advice to regional hospital management committees with regard to the introduction of mixed wards in hospitals; and if he will make a statement.

Dr. Vaughan,

pursuant to his replies [Official Report, 22 May 1979; Vol. 967, c.114; 14 June 1979; Vol 968, c.307],gave the following answer:

I refer my hon. Friends to my reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Tiverton (Mr. Maxwell-Hyslop) today.