§ Mr. Higginsasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether she is satisfied that information provided by her Department on the availability of discretionary payments to help pensioners on supplementary benefit with winter heating costs is adequate.
§ Mr. MeacherThe circumstances of pensioners on supplementary benefit are reviewed at regular intervals, by personal interview or post; both methods provide for information to be given about the availability of discretionary payments for heating and other special expenses. The forms used for postal review include a space for the pensioner to indicate whether he has any special needs, and reference is made specifically to heating. In addition, information about such additions is made available by the Supplementary Benefits Commission to social workers and482W others who may be in a position to advise pensioners.
§ Mr. Higginsasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if she will publish in post offices and other suitable locations notices showing pensioners the comparative costs of various methods of winter heating, including the costs of appliances and running costs, so that information on the most economic forms of heating are readily available.
§ Mr. MeacherI will consider the hon. Member's suggestion and will write to him.