§ Mr. DoranTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what is his policy regarding future provision of community care; and if he will make a statement. [12701]
§ Mr. GalbraithThe successful delivery of community care services depends on effective joint working between health, social work and housing agencies and on their making the best use of resources available to them including, for example, purchasing from the private and voluntary sectors. We are reviewing the various elements of community care funding and the Government are setting up a Royal Commission to review the arrangements for funding the long-term care of the elderly. We are preparing improved guidance on procedures for assessing the needs of older people and will consult later this year on how best to promote and improve joint working.