§ Mr. BurstowTo ask the Prime Minister (1) what cross-department fora have been established since 1 May 1997 concerning older people; what are their terms of reference; which departments are represented; and to whom they report; [43696]
(2) what plans he has to establish Cabinet level co-ordination of Government policy for older people. [43697]
§ The Prime Minister[holding answers 1 June 1998]: Many Government departments are involved in work which affects older people. This work is being taken forward within existing Government machinery, including ad-hoc inter-departmental groups of officials.
Ministerial colleagues and I are taking a close interest in these issues. We recognise that it is important that central Government work together in a co-ordinated way to improve the quality of life for all older people and are considering the best way to achieve this.
We recognise that this co-ordination also needs to happen at a local level. On 5 June, we will be formally launching the Better Government for Older People programme. The programme will establish 28 pilots centred on local authorities but involving scores of other local partners to improve public services for older people by better meeting their needs, listening to their views, and encouraging and recognising their contribution.
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