§ Mr. Alfred MorrisTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what submissions he has had from local government associations in relation to the funding deficit faced by social services departments in seeking to fulfil their statutory duties; what action he is taking; and if he will make a statement. [5822]
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§ Mr. BurnsWe are in regular touch with the local government associations, both through formally constituted channels and informally. In such discussions, the associations raise a wide range of issues concerning the funding of personal social services, and the discharge of their statutory duties.