HC Deb 20 June 1969 vol 785 c171W
Mr. Pavitt

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will publish the criteria on which he decides to license nursing homes to ensure that the facilities available are adequate and safe.

Mr. Crossman

Nursing homes require no licence from me but must be registered with the appropriate local authority under the public Health Act, 1936. Under the Nursing Homes Act, 1963 I have power to make regulations as to the conduct of nursing homes and this has been exercised in the Conduct of Nursing Homes Regulations 1963 (S.I., 1963, No. 1434). In addition I am arranging for all homes seeking approval under the Abortion Act, 1967 to be inspected by my officers before re-approval is given.