§ Mr. Ashleyasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what proportion of applications from disabled people for improvement or intermediate grants under Sections 56 and 65 of the Housing Act 1974 has been refused because the rateable value of their property was too high; if he will take action to remove the rateable value restriction from grants for disabled people; and if he will make a further statement.
§ Mr. ArmstrongI regret that the information requested is not available. My right hon. Friend has no power to exempt disabled people, as a special class of applicant, from the effect of the rateable value limits. He has, however, this week advised local authorities that610W they may, at their discretion, consider applications for house renovation grants from disabled people regardless of the normal limits on the age of the dwelling.