§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what is the Government's policy on the development of hospices; and what is the level of financial support earmarked for this purpose for the latest year for which figures are available.
§ Mr. SackvilleThe Government greatly appreciate the contribution of the voluntary hospice movement and of national health service units, to the provision of specialised care and support for terminally ill people and their families. Any individual or group considering developing a hospice or hospice-type services should discuss their ideas with the local health authority to ensure that services match local needs.
Since 1990–91, the Government have allocated funds annually to regional health authorities in England specifically to enable them to increase the support they give to voluntary hospices. The sums allocated have been:
£ million 1990–91 8 1991–92 17 1992–93 32