HC Deb 12 March 2002 vol 381 cc1001-2W
Chris Grayling

To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many residential and nursing homes have closed because an inspection highlighted inadequacies in their facilities. [23423]

Jacqui Smith

I apologise to the hon. Member for the delay in responding to this question. I refer him to the reply that my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State gave my hon. Friend the Member for Blackpool, North and Fleetwood (Mrs. Humble) on 5 March 2002,Official Report, column 192W.

In the period 1 April 1999 to 31 March 2000 (the most recent for which information is available) there were 140 closures of residential care homes and nursing homes (including children's homes) through cancellation procedures under the Registered Homes Act 1984.

Mr. Caton

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made of the impact of the introduction of free nursing care on the level of charges to residents of nursing homes. [34856]

Jacqui Smith

I apologise to my hon. Friend for the delay in responding to this question. I refer him to the reply that my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State gave my hon. Friend the Member for Blackpool, North and Fleetwood (Mrs. Humble) on 5 March 2002,Official Report, column 192W.

We expect nursing homes to reduce fees in line with the Registered Nursing Care Contribution received. However, I am aware that a number of national providers have used the opportunity afforded by the introduction of free nursing care to increase fees levied on people funding the costs of their own care. I have written to those providers seeking clarification and justification for the level of increase that they propose. We will take further action if required.