§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services why Mr. Barrie Roughley's disabled person's vehicle has not been repaired or replaced after a six-month delay; what is the average time for delivering such replacement vehicles; if his Department will give clear indications regarding waiting time; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir K. JosephEconomical repair of this vehicle, which was damaged in an accident, was not possible. It has now been replaced. The delay resulted largely from a mishandling of documentation within the Department which is deeply regretted. Appropriate action has been taken. The aim is immediate replacement of the vehicle and this is frequently achieved, but production difficulties in the motor trade and sometimes the need for modifications may on occasion involve a waiting period of up to a few weeks. if so the gap is bridged by the temporary loan of a three-wheeler whenever possible.