Changes to the residential system have become a key part of the development of the imminent general election.

All three parties have been discussing the issue of elderly care and when fees should and shouldn’t; be paid, with issue coming into the spotlight.

The Liberal democrats say that they would promise free care across all the service sectors – including personal care – for the elderly and have vowed to make the pledge a key election issue.

Leader Charles Kennedy said a debate was needed on "delivering a care system fair and fit for all".

The government says it would provide free nursing care but has drawn the line at personal care – such as help washing and eating.