§ 24. Dr. MoonieTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what action he proposes to improve the position of community care for mentally handicapped people in Scotland.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythDecisions about the provision of services in the community for people suffering from mental handicap are primarily for health boards and local authorities. Since 1979 we have substantially increased the resources available resulting in a considerable upturn in the level of services in the community for this group notably in day care and residential provision which have increased by 53 per cent. and 60 per cent. respectively. The funding and organisation of community care are under consideration in the light of the report prepared by Sir Roy Griffiths and the Government will bring forward proposals in due course.