HC Deb 05 July 1979 vol 969 cc715-6W
Mr. Colvin

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will consider extending the mobility allowance to include disabled people of pensionable age, namely 60 years for women and 65 years for men.

Mr. Prentice

From 5 September this year, women as well as men will be able to claim mobility allowance up to age 65. Once eligibility has been established, both men and women can obtain the allowance to age 75. Consideration of any further extensions to the existing scheme must depend upon a strengthened national economy.

Mr. Colvin

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if, in view of the

Mr. Onslow

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will list the types and dates of first manufacture of the X-ray equipment to be assessed at King's College hospital in the coming 12 months.

Dr. Vaughan

The following equipment has been selected for assessment at the centre in the coming 12 months.

sharp rise in the cost of petrol, he would consider increasing the mobility allowance immediately, instead of waiting until the autumn.

Mr. Prentice

On 3 July my right hon. Friend presented a statement to the House (HC137) explaining the basis of the forthcoming increase in the rate of mobility allowance to £12 a week. The new rate allows for the effect of expected movements in the retail price index between July 1978 and November 1979. I regret that economic circumstances do not permit an earlier increase.