§ Mr. David Steelasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will give consideration to the appointment of an independent inquiry into the effectiveness of the present social security and welfare system with terms of reference to include consideration of the present separation of local authority care from central Government cash.
§ Mr. OrmeWe have already in hand a review of the Supplementary Benefits Scheme, and one of the factors which led to the setting up of the review was the relationship between the responsibilities of the Supplementary Benefits Commission and those of other agencies of central484W and local government. We have undertaken to publish any proposals for changes in the scheme so that they can be widely studied. That will provide an opportunity to raise for discussion any particular issues relating to the relationship between the various services. Both we and the Commission have for long advocated the need for consultation and co-operation at all levels of these services.