§ Mr. Cartwrightasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what evidence is so far available on the take-up of the extra cash help for supplementary benefit recipients living on estates with expensive heating systems; what criteria are used to decide which estates qualify under these arrangements; and what steps are taken to publicise the fact that an individual estate has so qualified.
§ Mrs. ChalkerWe do not collect this information centrally. Following the approach of the former Supplementary Benefits Commission, we look at each case on its merits; the essential test is whether the heating system is disproportionately expensive to run. We are, however, considering the issue of more specific guidance on the treatment of types of heating. This guidance will be published in the "S" manual.