§ Mr. MacKenzieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has for increasing the number of sheltered houses, residential home places and hospital beds for elderly people in Scotland.
§ Mr. John MacKayThe stock of sheltered housing has increased more than threefold since 1979 and we shall continue to give strong encouragement to further expansion wherever it is required. The stock of residential home places is increasing more slowly consistent with the relative priorities of local authorities. We have made it clear that we back strongly the priorities given to health provision for the elderly in the report "Scottish Health Authorities Priorities for the Eighties".