HC Deb 23 November 1970 vol 807 cc27-8
35. Mr. Bob Brown

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications if he will make provision for a concessionary television licence for the deaf and dumb.

Mr. Chataway

No, Sir. It has been the policy of successive Governments to give cash benefits through the social security system to those in need rather than gifts in kind.

Mr. Brown

This is a disgracefully disappointing reply. Is the Minister aware that there are many thousands of deaf people who cannot lip-read and that their enjoyment is curtailed to such an extent that they are paying £6 for something which is worth only about 30s.? Will he reconsider this scandalous reply and consider at least making a concession to the deaf and dumb who live alone?

Mr. Chataway

As the hon. Gentleman well knows, that is the reply that has been given by successive Government They, like ourselves, have taken the view that the best way of helping people in need, whatever the reason for that need, is to give social security benefits which they can spend as they choose.

Mr. Marten

Are not those social security benefits given right across the board? Do we not need to give more to those who are actually in need?

Mr. Chataway

There are arrangements for concentrating help upon those in need, whereas if a blanket subsidy of this kind is given to everyone in a certain category, irrespective of need, resources are used less accurately to relieve those in need.

Mr. Brown

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. In view of the scandalous reply I have just—

Mr. Speaker

Order. Notice must be given in the conventional way.

Mr. Brown

I wish to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Adjournment.