§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if she will amend the title of her Department's annual report "Research and Development Work on Equipment for the Disabled" in order to emphasise that the purpose of Section 22 of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act was not merely to collate information on equipment specifically designed for the disabled but to survey all types of technological developments for spin-offs of potential value to them.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisI met my hon. Friend recently, together with other representatives of the Committee for Research into Aids for the Disabled, to discuss the reports so far issued under Section 22 of the Act. At our meeting, consideration was given to the effect which the report could be expected to have as a stimulus to research and development in this field.
I am now awaiting the further views which the representatives of the Committee for Research into Aids for the Disabled will be submitting to me. As my hon. Friend is aware, spin-off from technical development for other purposes is unfortunately not always easily recognisable. However, my right hon. Friends in charge of the other Departments which contribute to the report have been asked to notify me of developments which might be of interest, so that professional officers with experience of the equipment needs of the disabled can investigate the possibilities.
§ Mr. Martenasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what progress is being made with a more advanced version of swivel-walkers for the disabled.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisAn advanced version of the swivel walker is expected to be generally available in about 12 months.