§ Mr. Andrew SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what statutory directions have been issued to local authorities to ensure that the needs of those with drug and alcohol problems are fairly considered under care in the community.
§ Mr. YeoThe whole of the community care special transitional grant, which will be made available to local authorities, has been ring fenced to protect the funding of the entire range of community care services, including those for drug and alcohol misusers. The grant will reflect existing levels of provision in the alcohol and drug field. We have not, therefore, issued separate statutory directions on the distribution of these funds in respect of alcohol and drug misuse services. Statutory directions have, however, been issued to support payment or £3.3 million to enable local authorities to further develop224W voluntary sector services for those with alcohol and drug problems. We have also issued special guidance to local authorities in recognition of the particular challenge they face in meeting the needs of alcohol and drug misusers from 1 April 1993.