§ Mr. Alfred MorrisTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will set out the test of resources that applies to renovation grants and disabled facilities grants for works required by people with disabilities, what assessment he has made of the effect the means test on whether disabled people obtain the adaptions they need; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BaldryThe details of the test of resources for house renovation and disabled facilities grants are set out in the Housing Renovation Etc. Grants (Reduction of Grant) Regulations 1990—S.I. 1990 No. 1189. They are also summarised in the Department's circular 12/90, on house renovation grants, issued on 20 June 1990. Copies of these documents are available in the Library. The Department's monitoring shows that over 80 per cent. of recipients of mandatory disabled facilities grants receive 100 per cent. grants for the full cost of adaptations. On average, disabled people contribute only 5 per cent. of the cost of grant-aided works. The effect of the means test on grant applicants, including the disabled, has been considered as part of the recent review of the grant system. We hope to make an announcement shortly.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will set out the conclusions of the review of the renovation and disabled facilities grants scheme; what changes were introduced as a result of the review; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BaldryThe findings of the review of the house renovation grant system, including disabled facilities grants, are currently under consideration. We hope to make an announcement shortly.