asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will now take steps to increase the number of speech therapists working in St. Helens and Knowsley.

The St. Helens and Knowsley area health authority has appointed five therapists since September 1977, giving a total of six now in post. The authority intends to increase the number to 10 in the current year and to 14 by 1980–81. This information amends that given to my hon. Friend in my letter to him of 13th October which unfortunately contained an error.

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many people residing in the area of the St. Helens and Knowsley area health authority require the service of a speech therapist.

This information is not available.