HC Deb 09 December 1975 vol 902 c143W
23. Mr. Boscawen

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many National Health Service beds are currently empty because of staff shortages.

Dr. Owen

Staff shortages are not the only reason for hospital beds not being in use at any particular time. I regret that the Question could not be answered without disproportionate expenditure of time and effort.