HC Deb 24 January 1975 vol 884 cc527-8W
Mr. Carter-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if, in view of the help various societies concerned with agoraphobia give to individuals suffering from this complaint, she will consider financial support for voluntary organisa- tions and voluntary individuals who help to alleviate or cure this condition; and if she will make a statement.

Dr. Owen

I would be willing to consider requests for support from voluntary organisations concerned with agoraphobia whose work has national application.

Mr. Carter-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if she will give an estimate of the number of people who suffer from agoraphobia in this country; if she will give an indication of the numbers of people indirectly affected by this complaint; what action her Department proposes to take to relieve this condition; and if she will make a statement.

Dr. Owen

Reliable evidence is not available on which to base such estimates. We shall be issuing a White Paper setting out our proposals for the development of health and social services generally for the mentally ill. Separate special services for agoraphobia are not thought to be required.

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