57. Mr. J. T. Hallasked the Minister of Health what plans are available for the segregation of mentally-backward children from adults; what provisions are being made for children who are at present housed with adults at Bensham Hospital, Gateshead; and at what date it is anticipated that this accommodation will be available.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodWherever possible, children in mental deficiency hospitals are classified in separate villas or wards, but shortage of accommodation sometimes makes it necessary to place urgent cases with adults. As opportunity offers children at High Teams, Bensham, are moved to other more suitable accommodation. In reply to the third part of the Question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave on 2nd July to the hon. Member for Newcastle-upon-Tyne. West (Mr. Popplewell).
§ 61. Mr. E. Wakefieldasked the Minister of Health what steps he is taking to meet the needs of mentally-deficient children in Derbyshire for whom no institutional accommodation is at present available.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodThe regional hospital board is making a start this year on completing Balderton Colony at Newark, and proposals are at present being considered for extensions next year at Aston Hall Mental Deficiency Hospital.