§ Mr. Ieuan Wyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services when he now expects to receive the Griffiths report on community care; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NewtonI refer the hon. Member to my reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Brighton, Kemptown (Mr. Bowden) and the hon. Member for Monklands, West (Mr. Clarke) on 18 January at columns583–84.
§ Mr. CryerTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services how many hospitals have closed since 1979 due to the provision of community care for the mentally handicapped for each year since 1979; and what has been the use made of the sites.
§ Mrs. Currie[holding answer 1 December 1987]: No large hospital for mentally handicapped people has closed. About 45 National Health Service hospital units, hostels and holiday homes have closed mainly since 1984. Changes of use for the sites so far include new facilities for mentally handicapped people in the community, a general medical practice, private hospitals, nursing homes and homes for elderly people; educational and training establishments; residential development by private developers and housing associations; and a nature reserve.