§ 2. Sir Teddy TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on his plans to increase the number of care beds across the country. [26361]
§ Jacqui SmithOur policy is to enable people to remain independent in their own homes wherever possible. That is where most people want to receive care. Between 1999 and 2000 there was a 5 per cent. increase in the number742W of households receiving intensive home care. In addition, in October last year, we announced an extra £300 million investment over two years which will buy a range of services including additional care home placements.