After-care Facilities

HC Deb 19 July 1977 vol 935 cc424-5W

28. Mr. Moonman

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make a statement on the likely future trends of after-care facilities.

Mr. Ennals

Our long-term strategy for the development of after-care services for the mentally ill were set out in the White Paper "Better Services for the Mentally Ill" (Cmnd. 6233). The consultative document on priorities in the health and personal social services indicated the progress we hope will be made in the period to 1979–80, emphasising the importance of day care and residential provision and urging the use of low-cost solutions. I am considering the comments received on the consultative document, and I shall be issuing further guidance in due course.

Mr. James Johnson

asked the Secretar of State for Social Services if he will make a statement on the likely trends of after-care facilities in the European Economic Community.

Mr. Deakins

Membership of the EEC does not affect national health care provisions, including after-care, which remain the responsibility of individual member States. After-care includes a range of services, and if my hon. Friend will write to me about any aspect of concern to him I will endeavour to provide information.