§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is his policy towards the standardisation of means tests both within and between local authorities; what representations he has received on local authority means tests; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EnnalsI have seen the papers prepared by the All Party Disablement Group and by the Supplementary Benefits Commission which raise, among other matters, the question of means testing.
I have an overall interest in the level of charges made by local authorities for their personal social services, because of the implications for net public expenditure and particular services. In general, however, the responsibility for deciding whether or not to raise charges, the level of any charges and the assessment of an individual's ability to pay rests with the local authorities themselves. In reaching these decisions authorities must consider a wide range of local factors and account to their electorate for the revenues raised. There is, however, a statutory requirement to charge for accommodation under Part III of the National Assistance Act 1948 and, in assessing a person's ability to pay, to give effect to Part III of Schedule I of the Supplementary Benefits Act 1967.
I am aware that certain anomalies in charging policies and means testing have arisen, due to local circumstances. These matters are at present being considered by an inter-departmental group and I will consider, in the light of its deliberations, if any guidance would be appropriate.