§ Mr. MichaelTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is his best estimate of the number of non-registered residential homes for the elderly(a) in Wales, (b) in each county in Wales and (c) in each district in Wales.
§ Mr. Gwilym Jonesinformation on non-registered residential homes is not held centrally.
§ Mr. MichaelTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what steps he is taking to ensure that residents are not denied the therapeutic and rehabilitative benefit of participation in catering and domestic tasks in residential homes for elderly people in Wales as a result of the application of regulations consequent on the Food Safety Act 1990.
§ Mr. Gwilym JonesThe Food Safety Act does not prohibit anyone in residential or sheltered accommodation from preparing their own meals or beverages. However, the Food Hygiene (General) Regulations 1970, as amended, set out the controls necessary for the hygienic preparation of food other than in domestic settings. Environmental health departments advise on controls bearing in mind the nature of any food safety risk, including the type of food handled and the preparation involved. Residents may assist staff in the kitchen if the hygiene controls can be satisfied.