§ 11. Ms. Richardsonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received on the new severe disablement allowance.
§ Mr. NewtonMy right hon. Friend has received a number of representations from organisations and individuals.
§ Ms. RichardsonIs it not a disgrace that the Minister cannot say how many people, apart from married women, will be disadvantaged by the abolition of the non-contributory invalidity pension? Will he confirm that he has received representations from RADAR, the Disability Alliance and the Child Poverty Action Group but has not yet replied? Would it not be better if he dropped clause 4 of the Health and Social Security Bill and went back to talk to those who really understand about people with disabilities?
§ Mr. NewtonTaking those questions in reverse order, if we withdrew clause 4 of the Health and Social Security Bill we would be left with the disgraceful household duties test invented in 1976 by the right hon. Member for Manchester, Wythenshawe (Mr. Morris), which everyone regards as quite wrong. On the second point about the letter from RADAR, it has, indeed, written to my right hon. Friend, and he will be replying shortly. I hope that there will be an opportunity for a discussion with RADAR.