§ Ms JowellTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps she is taking to reduce bed occupancy in psychiatric units in inner London; and if she will make a statement. [21924]
§ Mr. BowisIt is for district health authorities to assess the mental health needs of their local population and to purchase services to meet those needs. In recognition of the pressures on mental health services in inner London we commissioned the mental health task force London project to work with the London health authorities, local authorities and other agencies to identify key problems and to develop action plans to address these. The mental health task force London project follow-up report, published on 19 April, copies of which are available in the Library, shows that health authorities have got off to a good start in implementing their action plans to improve London's mental health services. The regional offices of the national health service executive will continue to monitor progress closely.