§ Dr. Julian LewisTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) if he will make a statement on the funding by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight health authority of proposed crisis and home treatment services for the mentally ill in 2002–03; [55636]
(2) what guidance he has given to the Hampshire and Isle of Wight health authority in respect of (a) ring-fencing NHS funding for the modernisation of mental health services and (b) the allocation of NHS funding for mental health between the provision of (i) medium secure units and (ii) crisis and home treatment services. [55637]
§ Jacqui SmithAt this time discussions on the service and financial framework for Hampshire and Isle of Wight health authority are still on-going. I can assure the hon. Member that the importance of providing appropriate mental health services for the local people who need them is fully recognised by both the Department and the local health authority.
It is for local health authorities in partnership with primary care trusts to determine how resources are used to provide the greatest benefits for patients. For that reason no guidance has been issued on the funding of specific mental health services. From 2002–03 it will be 735W possible to identify precisely how the earmarked allocations, including those for mental health services, are being spent.