HC Deb 08 December 1982 vol 33 cc507-8W
Mr. Mike Thomas

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how far it is Her Majesty's Government's policy that hospitals and local authority social services departments should engage in fund raising activities that compete with the efforts of voluntary organisations.

Mr. Newton

Our view is that any fund raising activities by health authorities or local authority social services departments should be conducted in consultation and co-operation with voluntary organisations.

Mr. Mike Thomas

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what guidance he has given to health authorities, hospitals and local authority social services departments as to the use of paid professional fund raisers.

Mr. Newton

We issued guidance to health authorities in December 1980—H.C.(80)11—and May 1981—H.C.(80)11 Part II. I have placed copies in the Library. We have not issued guidance to local authority social services departments, but I am sure they would wish any fund raising activities to be undertaken in consultation and co-operation with voluntary organisations.