Mr. BurstTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what is the percentage increase in charges to service users for(a) domiciliary care services, (b) day care and (c) meals on wheels for the latest year for which figures are available for each local authority. [51508]
§ Ms JowellInformation on charges made to individuals for social services provision is not collected centrally. However, the total amounts reported by local authorities as having been received from clients in the form of fees and charges, in 1996–97, for different services are collected centrally, and are available in the form of computer tables on the DH World Wide Web pages for all local authorities in England (Internet referencehttp:\\www.open.gov.uk/doh/public/pss—stat.htm).
§ Mr. BurstowTo ask the Secretary of State for Health for what reasons his Department has not issued guidance under section 7 of the Local Government Act 1970 to local authorities on the provisions of section 117 of the Mental Health Act 1983. [51503]
§ Ms JowellSection 117 of the Mental Health Act 1983 places a duty on health authorities and local social services authorities to provide after-care services to a specified group of patients. It is a responsibility imposed on both authorities. Guidance on section 117 is contained in the Code of Practice to the Mental Health Act 1983.