I am pleased to have set up the interdepartmental group, which focuses on older people's needs, and I believe that it provides an opportunity to bring positive influence to bear on the various services provided to them. The group is taking a cross-cutting approach to its work, with members speaking with authority on behalf of their Departments. To date we have met around seven Departments, and those who have participated have influence over their Departments' policies regarding services for older people. A number of agencies and interested groups have also made submissions to the interdepartmental group, and we have made great progress. Pilot studies are under way and, arising from their positive effects, I hope to roll out the interdepartmental group's beneficial work nationally.