§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what representations he has received regarding recent changes in disability allowance; and if he will list the organisations concerned. [9307]
§ Mr. Andrew MitchellThe information is not yet available in the format requested. However, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has received a number of representations. The organisations which have written since the beginning of October are: Mencap, Mental Welfare Commission for Scotland, Disabled Drivers Association, the Society for the Mentally Handicapped, the Patients Council, the Society for Mentally Handicapped Children and Adults, the Robert Ferguson Unit and Escape.
I shall write to the hon. Member as soon as possible with the outstanding information.
§ Mr. CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many people have had their disability allowance(a) reduced and (b) discontinued since the introduction of the benefit. [9305]
§ Mr. MitchellThe information is not available in the format requested. Such information as is available is in the table. Information on attendance allowance, industrial injuries disablement benefit, the pneumoconiosis, 479W byssinosis and miscellaneous diseases benefit scheme, the workmen's compensation supplementation scheme and war disablement pensions is not available and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.
Disability living allowance awards reduced and discontinued—6 April 1992 to 30 November 1996 Numbers (thousands) Award reduced1 51 Benefit discontinued2 450 Source: Analytical services division. Notes: 1 Awards reduced relate to decisions made on renewal claims, reviews and appeals. 2 Includes termination of award due to death, no renewal of award and other reasons e.g. disallowances.