HC Deb 25 January 1978 vol 942 cc653-4W
Mr. Arnold

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether it is his policy that large hospitals for mentally handicapped patients should now be replaced by smaller units.

Mr. Moyle

Since 1971, it has been the policy of successive Governments that new hospitals and units for the mentally handicapped should contain not more than 100–200 beds and should be provided as part of a long-term programme for developing a comprehensive range of health and social services for the mentally handicapped in each locality.