§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment he has made of the impact of the national lottery on raising funds to support the development and operation of the hospice movement796W and hospices; what plans he has to ensure the financial security of hospices; and if he will make a statement. [9283]
§ Mr. MossWe have not made any assessment of the impact of the national lottery on the fund-raising activities of the hospices in Northern Ireland. We understand that the National Council for Hospice and Palliative Care Services is keeping this matter under review. To help ensure the financial security of hospices, health and social services boards have been asked to enter into contracts for the purchase of hospice services.