HC Deb 09 February 1977 vol 925 cc698-9W
Mr. Miscampbell

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what are the present proposals to increase the number of beds available in Victoria Hospital, Blackpool.

Mr. Moyle

The Lancashire Area Health Authority's current plans for the hospital include provision of eight additional medical assessment beds by April 1977 and 120 additional psychiatric beds by August 1979. There are tentative plans for further expansion of accommodation after 1980.

Mr. Miscampbell

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services, in view of the restriction on admissions to Victoria Hospital, Blackpool, what is his estimate of the present shortage of beds in that hospital.

Mr. Moyle

Thirty-three beds are temporarily out of use while upgrading is in progress.