Leading figures in the social care debate from Labour, the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats have signed a document of principles for a long-term solution, based on a mix of state payment and individual contributions.

It comes after weeks of bad blood between the parties and the collapse of consensus talks between Andy Burnham, the Health Secretary, and his opposite numbers, Andrew Lansley of the Conservatives and Norman Lamb of the Liberal Democrats. The Times understands that all three men are aware of the initiative and have not voiced objections. They are due to meet to discuss care plans on Wednesday.

The blueprint, published today and seen by The Times, focuses on ten principles for reform of the care system to ensure that there is enough money to cover the rising care costs faced by the country’s growing elderly population. It proposes a funding model based on contributions from the state and individuals, with the heavy financial burden of future costs shared out through general taxation or an insurance plan.

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