§ Mr. McCrindleasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) if he will reconsider his policy on special epilepsy hospitals, in the light of the recent statement by the British Epilepsy Association;
(2) if it remains his policy to phase out specialist epilepsy hospitals and to disperse patients to more general care hospitals.
§ Mr. MoylePeople with epilepsy have access to specialist health services, when these are needed. In a proportion of cases special hospital provision for assessment, treatment and rehabilitation may be required. Three special centres for this purpose are currently being evaluated as part of a wider research project on the care of people with epilepsy. The first results are expected next year. My Department's current policy for the care of the very small number of people with epilepsy who may require a more sheltered environment remains that set out in the Read Report, "People with Epilepsy" 1969.
In considering the further development of services for people with epilepsy in the light of the research study report, I shall take account of other evidence and representations made, including those of the British Epilepsy Association.