HC Deb 16 November 1973 vol 864 cc294-6W
Mr. Elystan Morgan

asked the Secretary of State for Wales how many beds for geriatric patients are provided in National Health Service hospitals in Wales.

Mr. Peter Thomas

3,545 as at 31st March 1973.

Mr. Elystan Morgan

asked the Secretary of State for Wales how many beds there are in National Health Service hospitals in Wales; and how this figure compares with that of 10 years ago.

Mr. Peter Thomas

25,542 at 31st March 1973, compared with 27,662 in March 1963. Over the same period the number of patients dealt with in hospitals in Wales has risen from 241,697 in 1962 to 327,319 in 1972. These changes reflect changes in the patterns and forms of medical care and the use of more efficient facilities.