§ Mrs. Ray MichieTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans she has to amend the regulations to allow those on attendance allowance, but ineligible for disability living allowance, to qualify for mobility allowance. [1290]
§ Mr. BurstowTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if she will make it her policy to adopt a social model of disability in framing all future and amending previous relevant legislation and guidance; and if she will make a statement. [1668]
§ Mr. DenhamThe Government recognise the importance of disability living allowance in enabling individuals to enjoy greater dignity and independence. We wish to ensure that the benefits system provides appropriate support to those in greatest need. We are planning to review provision in this area and will announce the scope of this review in due course.
The mobility element in disability living allowance is intended to reflect the identified need of those who suffer disability before retirement. The extension of the mobility component to those aged over 65 years, the age at which one may be eligible for attendance allowance, would cost an estimated £4 billion for 1997–98 and in the current circumstances it would be unlikely that such a significant extension of entitlement would attract priority.
Notes:
1. Estimate is for the full year 1997–98 and is in 1997–98 prices.
2. Estimate is based on disability living allowance case load statistics and the disability survey 1985.
3. Estimate is subject to a considerable margin of error and should be treated with caution.