HC Deb 09 March 1970 vol 797 cc217-8W
68. Mr. Wolrige-Gordon

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what are the categories of disabled people now eligible for a small car; what are the categories of disabled people still eligible only for an invalid tricycle; and what further upgrading from a tricycle to a small car is proposed for other categories.

Dr. John Dunwoody

Powered vehicles are provided for permanently disabled persons with both legs amputated, at least one above the knee; suffering from paraplegia or other defect of the loco-motor system equivalent to the total or almost total loss of the use of both legs, so that they are virtually unable to walk; and slightly less severely disabled with very little walking ability who need a vehicle to get to work. In general, cars are provided for war pensioners, and tricycles for National Health Service patients. Cars are supplied for National Health Service patients where two persons eligible for a tricycle are relatives and live in the same house, provided one at least will be able to drive; for a disabled parent, able to drive, in sole charge of a young child or children; and for a disabled person, able to drive, who lives with a blind relative. Any extension of the vehicle service will depend upon when further resources can be made available.