§ Mr. Gwilym Robertsasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether it is the Government's intention ultimately to extend the provisions of the mobility allowance to those over 60 years of age; and what steps are at present planned for extending the age range at which mobility allowance is payable.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisMy right hon. Friend and I have made it clear on a number of occasions that, if resources permit, we wish to consider extending the age limits for mobility allowance. An extension without any upper age limit would cost about £260 million a year extra, however, and there are many other pressing demands on our limited resources.
We are committed to completing the phasing-in programme before the end of 1979. Eligibility is being extended from February 1978 to people born on or after 2nd February 1922. We shall be phasing in men and women between 56 and their pensionable age as quickly as we can.