HC Deb 17 July 1985 vol 83 c194W
Mr. Ashley

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what priority he is giving to the issue of children in long-stay mental handicap hospitals in his regional review meetings with regional chairmen; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. John Patten

We have given and continue to give high priority to this issue. Services for mentally handicapped children are always considered as part of the preparation for each regional review, and are raised at review meetings where appropriate. In 1984 tasks relating to services for mentally handicapped children were set in the action plans for most regions.