§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will ask the Social Services Department to undertake a review of Lancashire County Council's proposals to reduce the number of residential care homes, taking into account the responses of the county council's consultation on the issue. [58000]
§ Jacqui SmithThe social services inspectorate is closely monitoring Lancashire County Council's proposals to assess its future care provision, to close some of its care homes and to consult on future strategies. I understand that the Council is reviewing its approach to the proposed closures and intends to hold a further series of meetings with residents and their relatives and other interested parties.