§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is his latest assessment of the impact of local government reorganisation on the provision of services of disabled people; what guidelines he(a) has issued, and (b) intends to issue, to unitary authorities on the provision of services for and to disabled people; what arrangements he intends to put in place to ensure the continuation of services which are currently provided across the new local government authority boundaries; and if he will make a statement. [9237]
§ Mr. Gwilym JonesThe new unitary authorities will be responsible for deciding how their statutory responsibilities for social services can best be discharged. The Welsh office issued guidance in August 1995 to all shadow unitary authorities in Wales, summarising local authority 'social services functions and responsibilities. This highlights the particular features of social services which the new authorities will need to consider as they plan the effective provision of social services for the people who need them. Sections 32–34 of the Local Government (Wales) Act 1994 allow my right hon. Friend to take certain steps if the arrangements for any service or aspects of that service appear to be unsatisfactory or appear likely to become unsatisfactory. These powers are available until 31 March 1999.
§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what plans he has to ensure that disabled people are represented on the health boards and health councils which he is responsible for appointing; and if he will make a statement. [9363]
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§ Mr. RichardsPeople representing all sections and interests of the community are encouraged, through open advertisement, to apply for non-executive appointment to NHS trusts and health authorities and to become members of community health councils. An equal opportunities policy in the selection process is adopted for all appointments.