HC Deb 23 January 1973 vol 849 cc129-30W
Mr. Cronin

asked the Minister of State for Defence if he will have a children's play area constructed as soon as possible

facilities are available to help them after their discharge.

Mr. Ian Gilmour

The total number of discharges due to psychiatric disorders was 5,351 for the calendar years 1968 to 1972 inclusive. This total includes an estimated figure for the latter part of the year that has just ended.

The detailed figures are as follows:

in the Household Cavalry Barracks, Knightsbridge, having regard to the danger for small children crossing the road into Hyde Park, the practicability of having such an area constructed on the roofs of available buildings and the circumstance that nearly 250 children would benefit.

Mr. Blaker

The provision of a children's play area on the roof of one of the barracks buildings has already been considered, but has been rejected on the grounds of its excessive cost. A children's playground has however been opened in Hyde Park, opposite the barracks, in the last week. Precautions have of course been taken to enable the children to reach the playground in safety.