It is for local authorities toassess the community care needs of older people, and to meet those needs, includingthe provision of free personal and nursing care where appropriate.I am aware that a number of localauthorities are operating waiting lists for personal and nursing care, and my officialsare pursuing this matter with the councils in question.We will work with those councilsto help them understand and address their responsibilities for the provision ofcare, and to ensure that older people are able to access the services...