HC Deb 13 February 1980 vol 978 c708W
Mr. John Grant

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services to what extent he considers the findings of the 1971 task force report "Old and Cold in Islington" remain applicable; and what consideration was given to the findings of the report and other more recent research into hypothermia and risk to the elderly from inadequate heating when deciding to end the electricity discount scheme.

Mrs. Chalker

Task force conceived its investigation as a means of obtaining financial help for a particular group of old people with whom it was involved in Islington in 1971. As such, the findings were not claimed to be representative. Subsequent research into hypothermia primarily rests upon data collected in two surveys in 1972.

The factors taken into account in reaching the decision to discontinue the electricity discount scheme are set out in my reply to the hon. Member for Walsall, North (Mr. Winnick) on 15 November 1979.—[Vol. 973, c. 740–41.]