§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he intends to issue a directive under Section 29(1) of the National Assistance Act 1948 as amended by the Local Government Act 1972 concerning arrangements made by local authorities for the welfare of substantially and permanently handicapped persons before 1st April 1974, when schemes under Section 34 of the National Assistance Act cease to have effect; if the directive will in any way affect the operation of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AlisonMy right hon. Friend will shortly be writing to local authorities about the replacement of schemes by arrangements; the new procedure will not affect the operation of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act.
§ Sir D. Walker-Smithasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will now review the criteria of eligibility for assistance with personal transport for disabled people with a view to making the said criteria wider or more flexible, and with particular reference to the public transport position.
§ Sir K. JosephThis is a matter which must await consideration of the report by Lady Sharp.