§ 53. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Health what is the estimated number of alcoholics in England and Wales; how many have been so designated as receiving or recommended for treatment during 1963; what arrangement exists between the National Health Service and approved private institutions for co-operation in dealing with alcoholics; and what research has been undertaken within his Department in order to determine the best therapeutic treatment for this affliction.
§ Mr. BraineNo reliable estimate of the total number of alcoholics or of the number receiving treatment in 1963 is available; the number of admissions to hospitals in 1962 for the treatment of alcoholism and alcoholic psychosis is estimated at 3,600; hospital authorities have been advised to co-operate in after-care with Alcoholics Anonymous; the Ministry does not undertake clinical research directly.