§ Dr. Roger Thomasasked the Secretary of State for Energy if before the cold effects of the coming winter can affect the health of the increasing number of old people who live at home and often live alone, he will introduce practical measures of assistance with energy costs.
§ Mr. MellorMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Social Services will be providing some £250 million of direct financial help with fuel costs over the coming year. Grants of up to 90 per cent. of the cost of providing insulation are also available to the elderly under the homes insulation scheme. In addition, my Department is providing grants, to stimulate the development of voluntary insulation projects to aid the elderly and other needy groups.