§ 34. Mr. E. Johnsonasked the Minister of Health in how many cases married couples were each provided with a powered tricycle by his Department in 1960 and to the latest convenient date in 1961; what is the cost of two such tricycles; and what would be the cost of a two-seater car as supplied to the war disabled.
§ Miss PittFour in 1960 and two this year. In addition, twelve tricycles were supplied in 1960 and five this year to persons whose spouses already had tricycles.
I cannot disclose precise contract prices.
§ Mr. JohnsonAs the numbers involved are very small indeed, and as the price of two tricycles, as my hon. Friend said in answer to a Question last week, is more than the price of one car, can she give me any possible reason, other than the principle of giving a preference to the disabled, why the Minister should not seek powers to allow married couples to have a car instead of tricycles, should they so desire?
§ Miss PittI answered a Question on this subject last week, and I would emphasise the point that I made then, which is a serious one. It is better in many circumstances for two disabled people to have two vehicles, because they are then both independent.
§ Mr. JohnsonI do not think my hon. Friend can have heard my supplementary question. I asked her whether my right hon. Friend should not take powers to let couples have a car instead of tricycles if they so desire—so that they may have a choice between the two?
§ Mr. JohnsonOn a point of order, Mr. Speaker. Owing to the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall seek an early opportunity to raise the matter on the Adjournment.