§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services, in the provision of equipment to a disabled person, what arrangements are made to assume the continuing responsibility to maintain that equipment in working order; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisI am advised that it is customary for any equipment provided through the Health Service for disabled people to use at home to be maintained either by my Department or by the health authority. While arrangements for the maintenance of equipment provided by social services authorities must be a matter for agreement between the disabled person and the local authority concerned, I would expect the authority to pay careful regard to this aspect of the service. If my hon. Friend has any particular case which he wishes me to inquire into, however, I shall be glad to do so.