HC Deb 16 October 1975 vol 897 cc767-8W
Mrs. Hayman

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the current number of one-parent families in Great Britain; and what proportion of England has met since 1st April 1974; and if she is satisfied with the co-ordination of policy between health authorities and local authorities by these committees.

Dr. Owen

Detailed information about meetings of joint consultative committees is not available centrally. It is clear that more can and should be done in some parts of the country to use the potential of the joint consultative committees to the full. We have repeatedly stressed to area health authorities and local authorities the importance we attach to co-operation in planning and provision of services in order to achieve our common aims of providing care in the community whenever possible, and securing the most effective deployment of the available resources. We have also announced our intention to consult on the possible joint financing of community projects.

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