§ Mr. Alfred MorrisTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to introduce regulation of private home care agencies to protect(a) existing users and disabled people who use such agencies and (b) others who may do so when the Community Care (Direct Payments) Bill is enacted; and if he will make a statement. [7766]
§ Mr. BowisOn 22 September 1995 we published a consultation document, "Moving Forward", on the regulation and inspection of social services. Among other issues, it seeks views on whether statutory regulation should be extended to day and domiciliary care services. We shall decide on what action, if any, to take in the light of this review, including any implications for people who in the future may receive direct payments if Parliament approves the Community Care (Direct Payments) Bill. Copies of the consultation document are available in the Library.