HC Deb 19 April 1951 vol 486 c179W
38. Miss Ward

asked the Minister of Health whether in view of the shortage of beds for the chronic sick in the country, he will consider making it a statutory obligation on the regional hospital boards to accept cases recommended by medical officers of health as in need of care and attention.

Mr. Marquand

No.

39. Miss Ward

asked the Minister of Health how many beds were available in the northern region for the chronic sick when the National Health Service Act came into operation; and how many are available today.

Mr. Marquand

I regret that the information asked for in the first part of the Question is not available. The number on 31st December, 1950, is estimated at about 2,650.