MPs will today debate the cabinet’s controversial plans to slash services for a large number of people with chronic health problems.

Long-term care for people with chronic conditions is currently paid for from a national insurance scheme known as the AWBZ.
But the cost of the AWBZ is set to rise 20% over the next four years. It is now around €22bn, representing 40% of all health spending.
This summer, junior health minister Jet Bussemaker announced a radical shake-up of the system which, according to ministry figures quoted in the AD newspaper, mean 60,000 people will no longer qualify for help.
Reduced services
A further 160,000 people will be entitled to reduced services. The cuts will bring savings of €800m by 2010, the cabinet says.
The changes mean only long-term care for people who cannot look after themselves at all will be covered by the AWBZ. Other care, such paying for someone to accompany an elderly person to the shops, will no longer be covered.
But children with autism, or adults with a light physical handicap, can apply for extra help from their local council or social services rather than from the AWBZ, Bussemaker says.