HC Deb 18 October 1976 vol 917 cc281-2W
Mr. Lomas

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if it his intention to ensure that at least present owners of the invalid tricycle will retain their trike, if they wish to do so, after the phasing-out period has ended; and if they will then be given a replacement vehicle.

Mr. Alfred Morris

We intend to keep trikes in service, for those who want to continue to use them, for as long as possible. For at least five years, we expect to be able to supply replacements and spares for present users of trikes supplied under the old scheme. I hope it will be possible for people who still want trikes to continue to use them for some time after that; for just how long will necessarily depend on the availability of spares and servicing arrangements. On the question of a replacement vehicle, I cannot at present add to what my right hon. Friend said in his statement to the House on 23rd July—[Vol. 907, c. 2229–2242.].

Mr. Arthur Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what was the cost of the current type of tricycle when last made available to a handicapped person and the comparative cost of a standard type vehicle adapted to provide similar facilities.

Mr. Alfred Morris

It is not the custom to disclose contract prices. The cost of a tricycle varies according to the nature of the special features needed, as does that of an adapted standard car.