§ Mr. Altonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what facilities exist for the treatment of heroin addicts on Merseyside; how many drug addicts are being treated there; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenInformation is not available centrally in precisely the form requested. In 1982, the latest date for which figures are available, there were drug addiction outpatient clinics at the Royal Liverpool hospital and Sefton general hospital. Total attendances at these clinics during 1982 were 425 and 888 respectively. Patients who attend more than once are counted separately for each attendance. In addition, there were 13 admissions for drug dependence to mental illness hospitals and units in Merseyside during 1982. Drug misusers are also treated by general practitioners but information on this is not collected centrally.