HC Deb 08 May 1973 vol 856 cc180-1
3. Mr. Kinsey

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what progress has been made in increasing the numbers of meals on wheels served.

Mr. Alison

During a sample week in November 1972, over 378,000 meals were served by or on behalf of local authorities to 135,000 people in their own homes. This represents a 17 per cent. increase in the numbers of meals provided over the previous year and a 13 per cent. increase in the number of people served. A further 221,000 meals were provided in clubs or centres, 19 per cent. more than in the previous year. In each case these are record increases.

Mr. Kinsey

My hon. Friend has given us wonderful news. Is he considering the possibility of getting more volunteers to help in taking round the meals, as this would be extremely useful to the people who administer the scheme?

Mr. Alison

We are extremely dependent upon voluntary workers for this service and my right hon. Friend and I have repeatedly paid tribute to the enormous contribution they make. We have recognised their special rôle by considerably increasing central Government financial support for the national headquarters of voluntary organisations.