§ Mr. Ashleyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will fund community geriatric services on an adequate basis to ensure that all sufferers are treated.
§ Mr. Geoffrey FinsbergThe distribution of funds to health authorities is based on an assessment of their overall need for health care resources. Within these allocations, it is for health authorities to determine the pattern of services they provide, in the light of local circumstances and national priorities. The White Paper "Growing Older" and the Department's policies and priorities document "Care in Action" have recently stressed the importance of community health care for elderly people and their families.