HC Deb 26 February 1980 vol 979 c537W
63. Mr. Edwin Wainwright

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many hospitals have been closed in England and Wales during the past 12 months; and how many beds were involved.

Dr. Vaughan

During the period 1 January 1979 to 31 December 1979 area

Men aged 65 and over Women aged 60 and over
Mid-year estimate Number (in thousands) Percentage of total population Number (in thousands) Percentage of total population
1955 … … 2,306 4.5 4,878 9.6
1978 … … 3,169 5.7 6,481 11.6