HC Deb 21 December 1988 vol 144 cc292-3W
Mr. Gwilym Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales whether he has reached a decision about the allocation of resources for health and personal social services in Wales in 1989–90.

Mr. Peter Walker

Subject to parliamentary approval, I propose to allocate £1,315 million in 1989–90 to health and personal social services in Wales. This represents a cash increase of £142 million over 1988–89 plans, and an increase of nearly £93 million over planned provision for 1989–90. The Health Service will have further additional spending power of nearly £19 million as a result of reduced superannuation contributions.

My proposals include £953 million for the hospital and community health services, an increase of £103 million over provision in 1988–90. I will announce allocations to individual health authorities as soon as possible. In addition to their allocations, health authorities will retain the benefit of cash released through cost improvement programmes, income from charges for the treatment of private patients and from income generation schemes, and receipts from the sale of surplus land and buildings.

I am proposing a special allocation of over £6 million in support of developments under my programme for the valleys. My proposals will also make possible the further development of modern patterns of service for those with mental handicaps, elderly people and those suffering from mental illness; of breast and cervical cancer screening services; measures against AIDS; and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle.