§ Mr. Adam Butlerasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what plans she has to help sufferers from spina bifida; and whether the case of such sufferers will be included in the report on incomes for the disabled.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisSpina bifida patients can be helped by improving and developing services for the disabled generally, which we plan to do as rapidly as resources allow. So far as the particular requirements of this group are concerned my Department has issued a memorandum on the care of children with spina bifida, and is supporting research into the incidence and social effects of the condition. As part of the equipment research and development programme, the Department is undertaking further work on braces, callipers and other orthotic devices for these patients. The review of social security provision for the chronically sick and disabled will cover all disabled people whatever their age or disability.