§ Sir D. Walker-Smithasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what consideration he has given to the figures contained in the annual report of the Merseyside Council on Alcoholism, a copy of which has been sent to him; and what steps he intends to take in regard thereto.
§ Sir K. JosephThis report infers, from various indications, that alcoholism is increasing. Hospital admissions of patients whose diagnosis on admission was alcoholism or alcoholic psychosis have increased over recent years, but this may, in part, reflect increased awareness500W of alcoholism as a disease and improvements in treatment facilities. I doubt whether there is evidence to suggest how many alcoholics there are likely to be in this country in 1980, but I am seriously concerned about the signs that alcoholism may be increasing, and will continue to work towards prevention and better treatment and community facilities.