HC Deb 22 March 1976 vol 908 cc20-1W
Mr. Hannam

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what plans she has to replace the existing invalid tricycle with a single-seater four-wheeled invalid vehicle.

Mr. Alfred Morris

There are no such plans. There has been no change in the Government's decision making a cash allowance the main mobility benefit for disabled people with the invalid tricycle as an alternative for those who prefer it and can drive the vehicle.

Mr. Hannam

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is her estimate of the cost of her Department's wheelchair service in each of the last five years for which figures are available.

Mr. Alfred Morris

The approximate cost of purchasing new chairs and maintaining those on issue for England in each of the past five financial years was as follows:

Year ending £ million
31st March 1971 1.2
31st March 1972 1.9
31st March 1973 2.6
31st March 1974 3.0
31st March 1975 3.8