§ 47. Captain Orrasked the Minister of Labour the number of persons undertaking courses in physiotherapy as blind students at the National Institute for the Blind Physiotherapy School in London; the total amount of grants payable for personal maintenance and the maintenance of students' families; and how far these grants make provision for travel to and from the school.
§ The Minister of Labour (Sir Walter Monckton)Forty-six, of whom 31 are in receipt of grants from my Department; the total amount of grants payable by my Department is £6,292 per annum, individual grants varying in accordance with personal circumstances; special grants are payable to meet daily travel expenses in excess of 4s. per week.
§ Captain OrrIs my right hon. and learned Friend aware that these grants have not altered since 1948 and that some of these blind people, trying to fit themselves to be useful citizens, are experiencing great hardship? Will he receive a deputation?
§ Sir W. MoncktonAs my hon. and gallant Friend says, there are cases where the present rate of grants may be causing trouble. I am quite willing to receive a deputation on the matter.