HC Deb 08 April 1986 vol 95 cc80-1W
Mr. Michael Brown

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he has received any application for public funds from Action on Alcohol Abuse; what has been his response; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Whitney

An application for grant-aid from Action on Alcohol Abuse was received on 2 December 1985. Following a review of the alcohol misuse voluntary sector in 1982, it was decided to maximise the use of departmental funds in this field by continuing grant-aid to a single national voluntary agency. Alcohol Concern was set up in 1983 to undertake a wide range of activities, including many of the stated aims of Action on Alcohol Abuse; we were therefore unable to agree to fund Action on Alcohol Abuse.

Mr. Michael Brown

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what meetings he or his officials have had with representatives from Action on Alcohol Abuse; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Whitney

Meetings between officials and representatives from Action on Alcohol Abuse took place on 21 January 1983 and 18 July 1985.