§ Mr. Kaberryasked the Minister of Health the total number of chronic sick awaiting admission to suitable hospital accommodation in England and Wales at the latest available date; the number of beds available for chronic sick but now empty by reason of staff shortage; and whether he can give any indication as to future means of reducing the total number on the waiting list.
§ Mr. BevanAccording to the latest information which relates to the summer of 1949, 6,114 chronic sick patients were awaiting admission to hospital in England and Wales. In October, 1949, 5,508 chronic sick beds were unoccupied for lack of staff. The primary need is therefore for additional staff and every effort for its recruitment is being made.