HC Deb 18 July 1997 vol 298 c337W
Mr. Cawsey

To ask the Secretary of State for Health when the present legal description of care came into force. [9593]

Mr. Boateng

The present system for provision of residential accommodation by local authorities derives from the National Assistance Act 1948. This provides for residential accommodation for certain persons in need of care and attention but the word "care" is not defined in the legislation. The term "residential care home" is defined in the Registered Homes Act 1984.