§ 33. Mr. Collinsasked the Minister of Health if he is now in a position to state his policy in respect of the replacement of cars supplied upwards of seven years ago to severely disabled persons.
§ The Minister of Health (Mr. Iain Macleod)No simple replacement formula is appropriate, but I should not expect replacement to be necessary until a car has been in use for at least eight years. I do not in any event propose to replace a car until it is beyond economical repair, and then only if it has been reasonably used and properly maintained and if the need for a car is still established.
§ Mr. CollinsIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that he told me on 20th June that he was considering his policy in respect of these cars? Does his answer constitute a statement of policy? What procedure is to be followed in respect of those cars which are now eight years old? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the repairs needed to some of these cars are such as to make them far too expensive for continued economical use?
§ Mr. MacleodThe answer to the first part of the hon. Member's question is "Yes, Sir." As to the second part, I am sure he will agree that the condition of a car rather than its age or, indeed, its mileage is the main concern. Therefore, if cars of eight years of age or even less are, in special circumstances, beyond economical repair, I would be prepared to consider their replacement.