HC Deb 03 April 1973 vol 854 cc218-9
18. Mrs. Kellett-Bowman

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what guidance he will be giving to the proposed new area health authorities about co-operation with voluntary bodies and associations in their areas.

Sir K. Joseph

I cannot yet add to my reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Bristol, North-East (Mr. Adley) on 26th February—[Vol. 851, c. 302–3.]

Mrs. Kellett-Bowman

Will my right hon. Friend make absolutely certain that the very strong local associations which appertain to hospitals, particularly in my part of the world, are in no way damaged by the reorganisation which is about to take place?

Sir K. Joseph

The present Government have multiplied tenfold the public money going to support the headquarters of voluntary bodies. Ministers of the present Government are intensely enthusiastic about voluntary service and will do everything possible to encourage it.