§ Mr. Alan HowarthTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will commission research to ascertain whether local authorities are using the personal expenses allowance to support married people whose spouse is in a local authority provided residential or nursing home care; and if she will make a statement. [22592]
§ Mr. BowisWe have invited, but not as yet received, hard evidence to suggest that local authorities are not sensibly using their discretion to help spouses at home. However, the residential accommodation charging rules are kept under constant review, including whether any action in this area is necessary.