§ Mr. WareingTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what representations he has received calling for the payment of attendance allowance automatically as of right to blind people living alone: what his reponse has been; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Scott[holding answer 3 July 1989]: We have occasionally received representations on this subject in the course of correspondence with hon. Members on behalf of individual constituents. In reply we have explained that entitlement to an attendance allowance is not geared to specific disabling conditions or illnesses. People with a severe disability qualify for the allowance if they require from someone else either frequent attention in connection with bodily functions or continual supervision or watching over to avoid substantial danger to themselves or others.