§ 65. Mr. Tinkerasked the Minister of Health whether he will consider the position of those who are on National Health disablement benefits who have to apply for relief, and give them the same conditions as the applicants for Supplementary Old Age Pensions as regards the means test?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Miss Horsbrugh)My right hon. Friend would not feel justified in proposing legislation to provide that the resources of these persons should be assessed on a different basis from those of other applicants for relief. I may, however, remind my hon. Friend that in granting outdoor relief, Health Insurance benefit is not taken into consideration, except so far as it exceeds 7s. 6d. a week.
§ Mr. TinkerWhen the Bill is introduced, will this matter be considered, and will the House of Commons be allowed to decide whether it is wise or not to do this?
§ Miss HorsbrughI will inform my right hon. Friend of the suggestions which the hon. Gentleman has put forward.