§ Mr. PickthallTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what evidence she has to demonstrate that the transfer of funding to local authorities for care in the community is keeping pace with the transfer of responsibilities.
§ Mr. BowisSince 1990–91, total resources for community care have risen by 121 per cent. to £5,122.6 million for 1995–96, including an increase of 12.4 per cent. for 1995–96 over 1994–95. In addition, specific grants have been increased for drugs and alcohol, AIDS/HIV and social work training for 1995–96 in line with inflation and increased by some 30 per cent. for mental illness.
§ Mr. PickthallTo ask the Secretary of State for Health when she plans to meet representatives of Lancashire county council to discuss the resourcing of care in the community.
§ Mr. BowisI have on various occasions met members and officers of Lancashire county council and Members of Parliament from the area. I have no current plans for further meetings.