HC Deb 18 March 1963 vol 674 cc19-20
25. Mr. Hilton

asked the Minister of Health if he will now make available the new Mini car to ex-Service persons who have become disabled other than as a result of war-time service since discharge from Her Majesty's Forces.

Mr. Braine

No, Sir.

Mr. Hilton

Why does the Ministry continue to differentiate between the war disabled and those disabled by other means? Is the Parliamentary Secretary not aware that there are people who, having served for six years in the Forces, have, after demobilisation, become disabled and are having to get to work under great difficulties? Will not the hon. Gentleman urge his right hon. Friend to have another look at this matter, for do not such cases deserve sympathetic treatment?

Mr. Braine

The hon. Member will agree that there should not be a distinction made between National Health Service patients who have served in the Forces and other National Health Service patients for whom no such distinction is made. Patients who are sufficiently disabled are eligible for the provision of power transport and receive tricycles, but it is in accord with the tradition of the social services in this country that a preference is made in respect of the war disabled.

Mr. Hilton

Nevertheless, is it not a fact that a differentiation is now made? Will he not close this gap and make Mini cars available to a wide range of disabled persons?

Mr. Braine

There is a differentiation, but it is in the respect which I have explained. I think that on a moment's reflection the hon. Member will see that if, in fact, there was to be any kind of extension it is not a car as such that should be extended. One might well consider extending the eligibility of those who need this kind of transport; but that is another matter. This is a very serious matter and I do not think it can be settled on the basis the hon. Member suggests.