§ Ms CoffeyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if those bids for centenary care challenge fund approval for 1996–97 will also receive funding in 1997–98. [7938]
§ Mr. BurnsArrangements for the continuing care challenge fund are set out in EL(96)109, copies of which are available in the Library; £16 million is available to support continuing health care schemes in 1996–97 and £20 million, to be matched by £40 million from health and/or local authorities, will be available for 1997–98. Health authorities have been asked to submit, separately, bids for funds for 1996–97 by 13 December 1996 and by 24 January 1997 for further funds in 1997–98.
§ Ms CoffeyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what priority will be given to health authorities over their weighted capitation target for mental health challenge fund money in 1997–98. [7940]
§ Mr. BurnsNone. The criteria for assessing bids against the fund are set out in EL(96) 109 issued to chief executives of health authorities and NHS trusts on 29 November 1996.