§ Q52. Sir Brandon Rhys Williamsasked the Prime Minister if she will set up a study of the possibility of amalgamating the local Department of Health and Social Security offices handling case work with the social work and housing departments of the local authorities; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterSuch an amalgamation would almost certainly involve heavy medium-term costs, and I am not convinced that it would lead to more efficient and effective delivery of the services concerned. I do not, therefore, think such a study would be justified. The maintenance of effective liaison with social services and housing departments is a major objective of DHSS local offices.