HC Deb 24 July 1979 vol 971 cc211-2W
Mr. Skinner

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied that the revised car mileage allowance for district nurses will provide them with adequate recompense for using their own cars; and if he will make a statement.

Sir George Young

I endorse the recent increases agreed by the General Whitley Council, which were based on the AA schedule of motoring costs, and I welcome the council's commitment to a comprehensive review of mileage allowances and associated arrangements, once a current

Sir George Young

The information most closely approximating to that requested is as follows:

fact-finding survey of National Health Service car usage is completed.

Mr. Skinner

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will introduce measures for the provision of Crown cars for district nurses employed by all health authorities.

Sir George Young

Health authorities already have discretion to allocate official vehicles to staff where they consider this to be justified in terms of efficiency and economy in the discharge of an officer's main duties where a vehicle is essential. Practice varies between authorities according to the funds which can be made available for this purpose.