HC Deb 22 July 1980 vol 989 cc616-7W
42. Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what plans he has for expanding joint funding schemes between local authorities and area health authorities to encourage mutually supportive policies in the care of old people.

Sir George Young

The joint finance allocation this year represents a 15 per cent. increase in real terms on that for 1979–80, and my right hon. Friend has decided that the amount provided should continue to increase gradually over the next few years. He does not determine the uses to which joint finance should be put; this is a matter for the local and health authorities as part of their collaborative planning. Detailed information is not available, but there are indications that up to 40 per cent. of joint finance is used for schemes in connection with services for the elderly.