The Scottish Executive has announced a delay in the implementation of free nursing and personal care for older people 'for technical and administrative reasons'. Nursing home residents will have to wait until at least July, rather than April, to receive the government's £210 a week contribution to their care costs. Opposition parties have accused the Executive of reneging on its promises under pressure from Westminster, but health minister Malcolm Chisholm said the recommendation to extend the timetable came from front line staff and the delay would allow for better care and support for older people.