§ Mr. Normantonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many hospitals in England are adopting a policy of mixed wards for patients; what proportion of the total beds falls into this category; and whether he has issued any directive or policy guideline on this.
§ Mr. MoyleThe figures the hon. Member has asked for are not available and could only be obtained at disproportionate cost. My right hon. Friend's views were set out in his reply to the right hon. Member for Wanstead and Woodford (Mr. Jenkin) on 9 March.—[Vol. 945, c.777–8.] My Department has not issued formal guidance on mixed sex wards, but their use has been discussed with senior officers of the regional health authorities.