§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what action he is taking to reverse the trend of patients and their families using the private sector and to establish more national health service nursing homes based on three DSS pilot schemes.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyHealth authorities are expected to ensure that a range of services are available for elderly people, including long-term care. It is for each health authority to decide the level and type of provision taking account of local needs and priorities. Within this our policy is to promote choice and the development of a flourishing independent sector alongside good quality public services.