§ Mr. Bidwellasked the Secretary of State for Social Services when he is expecting the inquiry to report on Part III accommodation as it affects practices affecting mental health sufferers relying on a pocket money system; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. DeakinsI understand that my hon. Friend is referring to the joint working group of central and local government officers which has been set up by the Consultative Council on Local84W Government Finance, of which my right hon. Friend is a member to consider central and local government's policies and practices in respect of existing charges for local services, other than housing rents, transport fares and school meals. The issues involved are complex and the date on which the group will report to the consultative council is not yet known. When the group has reported I will consider what further guidance it might be appropriate to issue about the pocket money system.