HC Deb 25 July 1990 vol 177 cc325-7W
Mr. Tom Clarke

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will publish a table of expenditure in 1988–89 by Scottish local authorities in respect of persons in residential care homes by the client groups (i) elderly, (ii) physically handicapped, (iii) mentally handicapped and (iv) mentally ill.

Mr. Lang

The information requested is set out in the table.

1Net expenditure on residential care in 1988–89 (£m)
Elderly 65.4
Physically handicapped 1.8
Mentally handicapped 10.0
Mentally ill 0.5
1Net expenditure met from rates and grants.

Mr. Tom Clarke

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how much money will be available to local authorities and voluntary organisations for the new mental illness project grant; when the final guidance will be issued to local authorities and other bodies; what provision there will be in Scotland for a special grant for projects helping people with alcohol and drug-related problems; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Lang

As my right hon. and learned Friend indicated in his written reply to the hon. Member for Tayside, North (Mr. Walker) on 18 July, specific grant will be payable for increased community services for the mentally ill from 1991–92. Grant will be paid at 70 per cent. of the costs of projects up to a total of £3 million in the first year. A consultation paper outlining the proposed arrangements for the payment of grant was issued to local authorities and voluntary agencies in March. Formal guidance reflecting the result of these consultations will be provided to local authorities shortly.

Voluntary sector projects providing assistance to persons with alcohol or drug-related problems will continue to be eligible to receive grant from my Department under section 10 of the Social Work (Scotland) Act 1968. In 1990–91 £96,000 has been made available for current expenditure and £260,000 for capital expenditure. In addition the Scottish Office will continue to make funds available to health boards for the welfare of local drug misuse services. The level of support provided in 1990–91 is £2.2 million.