§ Mr. MacShaneTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what is his policy on the provision of health authority funds to hospices; and if he will make a statement; [14109]
(2) what regulations or agreements cover the provision of NHS funds to assist in the running costs of hospices. [14108]
458W
§ Mr. HoramAs with other services, health authorities have a duty to ensure that specialist palliative care services, including hospice care, are in line with the assessed health needs of their populations. Since 1994–95, funding for specialist palliative care has been built into health authorities' general funding allocations. Those providing the care, including hospices, receive funding from health authorities according to their contracts. The level and form of financial support is a matter for local negotiation.