§ 16. Mr. Canavanasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is 90W satisfied with the level of heating allowances provided by his Department.
§ Mr. DeakinsThe supplementary benefit scale rates, which were uprated on 15th November, are intended to cover normal heating requirements. Additional payments to meet extra heating needs are made under the Supplementary Benefits Commission's discretionary powers, and these were increased at the same time, by over 25 per cent., to take account of increases in fuel prices.
§ Mr. Kershawasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will review the fuel allowances for pensioners in view of the many pensioners who find it impossible to pay fuel charges.
§ Mr. DeakinsI would refer the hon. Member to my reply to my hon. Friend the Member for West Stirlingshire (Mr. Canavan) earlier today.