To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster how many public service organisations have asked his Department for information on the 1993 charter mark competition; and if he will make a statement.

Since the launch of the 1993 charter mark scheme on 17 February, the citizens charter unit has sent out nearly 40,000 copies of the charter mark information leaflet and more than 5,000 copies of the charter mark guide for applicants. I will send one to the hon. Member for Bradford, South (Mr. Cryer). Early indications are that there will be a very good response.

Does my hon. Friend welcome the way in which Conservative-controlled Kent county council is applying the charter principles to its whole range of services for people in Kent?

I am delighted to join my hon. Friend in his commendation. My right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster visited Kent county council last autumn to see the progress of its charter programme and he was very impressed by what he saw of that efficient and progressive Conservative council.

Is the Minister aware that a conflict may arise from this Thursday in relation to care in the community? Will he see fit to extend the charters into such activities, so that the services required are not rationed by the county councils' financial arrangements? It is crucial for the people involved to know that they will get a fair deal

The hon. Gentleman makes a fair point. I will certainly examine how the charter principles can be applied to the new arrangements under community care, if they are not already covered.