HC Deb 13 March 1991 vol 187 cc557-8W
Mrs. Heal

To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make it his policy for at least 10 per cent. of national health service beds for the elderly to be provided and staffed for long-stay patients who choose to remain in national health service care.

Mr. Dorrell

Health authorities are expected to provide an integrated pattern of services for elderly people, including long-term care. It is for each health authority to decide the level of this service, or any other service, to be provided, taking into account the local circumstances.