§ Mr. Norman HoggTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many full national vocational qualifications have been awarded in the current year and in each year since 1992; at which levels these awards were made; and how many, at each level, were awarded in construction, engineering, manufacturing, health and social care, business administration, accounting and financial services and management, respectively.
§ Lord James Douglas-Hamilton[holding answer 28 November 1994]: The available information on Scottish vocational qualifications is set out in the table.
money. That involves not only arranging care in their own provider units but purchasing care from providers in the private and voluntary sectors.
While many authorities have taken on this role on an even-handed, basis some appear to wish to use the additional resources to favour their own provider units even when these do not offer best value for money. The Secretary of State has encouraged authorities to make best use of the resources available to meet the care needs of the people in their areas.
§ Ms Rachel SquireTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what priority he gives to(a) quality and standards, (b) accessibility and affordability for all and (c) cost-efficiency in the development of a mixed economy of community care.
Lord James Douglas Hamilton[holding answer 28 November 1994]: The Government, in their guidance to local statutory and independent sector agencies, have pointed to the importance of all these factors. Local authorities are responsible for evaluating the relative importance of each of these factors as they relate to individuals' needs. In doing so they must also take full account of individuals' choice.
§ Ms Rachel SquireTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will introduce an inspection and registration procedure for domiciliary care in the community.
Lord James Douglas Hamilton[holding answer 28 November 1994]: My right hon. Friend has no such plans at present.
§ Ms Rachel SquireTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will publish the evidence he has that the development of the mixed economy of community care has been unsatisfactory.
693W
Lord James Douglas Hamilton[holding answer 28 November 1994]: The Scottish Office publishes a range of annual indicators on community care, including the development of the mixed economy.