§ Mrs. Knightasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what assessment she has made of the extent of the problem of battered wives; and if she will make a statement;
(2) if she will take action to secure the provision of long-term community care for women who have been severely injured by their husbands;
(3) if she will issue a circular recommending local authorities to set up refuge homes for battered wives;
(4) if she will take steps to encourage local authorities to set up refuge homes for battered wives;
(5) if she will invite local authorities to make a study of the services available for battered wives in their areas.
§ Mr. Robert C. BrownWe are satisfied that marital violence is a real and complex problem, the extent of which is greater than has usually been supposed. But our present knowledge of the needs to which it gives rise is only partial and more study is needed before we can get priorities and be sure what sort of care is in the best interests of women who572W leave home because of violence. Nevertheless, recent circulars on homelessness and the urban programme have drawn attention to ways of providing for their shelter and support. The hon. Member will be aware that my right hon. Friend the Leader of the House announced during the business statement on 4th July that a Select Committee was to be set up in the autumn and my right hon. Friend does not expect to issue further guidance before then.