§ Mr. Hannamasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what assessment his Department has made of the extra costs arising to disabled people from aids and equipment provided for them which 257W use electricity; and what assistance is available to help them with meeting increased electrical costs (a) if they are in receipt of supplementary benefits and (b) if they are not in receipt of supplementary benefits.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisWhile I am advised that the electricity consumption of most items of electrical equipment provided for the use of disabled people by health authorities is not high in relation to other domestic consumption, I am currently looking into an individual case. Local authorities which have provided equipment are empowered to make payments direct to electricity boards where they are satisfied that the need exists, whether or not the disabled person is in need of supplementary benefits.
If the hon. Member has a particular case in mind, I shall be glad to look into it.