HC Deb 17 May 1971 vol 817 cc237-8W
Mr. Greville Janner

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the estimated number of stammerers in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Alison

I regret that this information is not available.

Mr. Greville Janner

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what research is at present being undertaken in the United Kingdom into the causes and cure of stammering.

Mr. Alison

Three Medical Research Council Units are engaged in research work relating to problems of speech defects and much basic research sponsored by the Medical Research Council in the field of neuro-biology is relevant to the study of causes and 'cure of stammering. I am also aware of a considerable amount of research in this field being undertaken in universities and other institutions.

Mr. Greville Janner

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will increase the provision of treatment for stammering available under the National Health Service.

Mr. Alison

The number of speech therapists in National Health Service hospitals increased by 35 per cent. over the past five years but it is not known what proportion of their time is devoted to treatment for stammering. The Committee of Inquiry into the speech therapy services is expected to report towards the end of the year, and this will help in assessing future needs.