HC Deb 21 July 1975 vol 896 cc105-6W
Mr. Kilroy-Silk

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many detoxification centres are now in operation; where they are sited; how many persons each of them has treated; how many other centres are planned and for how many persons; when they will be built; and when they will come into operation.

Dr. Owen

A 15-bed detoxification unit is being built at Withington Hospital, Manchester and is expected to be open next year. Discussions are continuing on some other projects in London and elsewhere as part of an experimental programme to decide whether they are a satisfactory alternative to penal measures where public drunkenness is a serious problem. A special sub-group of the newly appointed Advisory Committee on Alcoholism is advising on services for the homeless alcoholic, including this experimental programme of detoxification.