HC Deb 31 January 1968 vol 757 cc1328-9
10. Mr. Clark Hutchison

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will request the local authorities in Scotland to institute a register of all those in their respective areas who are suffering from physical disabilities but who are not in receipt of industrial, war or other pensions or special tax allowances or grants.

The Under Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Brace Millan)

Local welfare authorities are already required to keep registers of permanently disabled persons in their areas. Where persons on these registers appear to be entitled to financial assistance, the local authority's officers notify the Ministry of Social Security. I doubt whether special registration, as suggested by the hon. Gentleman, would achieve any more.

Mr. Clark Hutchison

Does the Under-Secretary realise that if we wish to help the category of people mentioned in my Question it is necessary to identify them explicitly? This is the suggestion. Can he press on with the work because many of these people are in dire difficulties?

Mr. Millan

I appreciate that. Already a great deal is done to identify them, as my Answer demonstrates. A survey under the Government Social Survey is being initiated dealing with the particular question of identifying the disabled living at home. I hope that that will give us additional information.

Mr. G. Campbell

Is the Minister aware that the system of registration is at present not comprehensive and it does not supply all the information required? Can he say whether the Social Survey, announced in reply to a Question put by me, has yet started?

Mr. Millan

I believe the Answer that was given to the hon. Member was that it would be starting some time in the current year. That still stands.