HC Deb 21 January 1982 vol 16 cc169-70W
Mr. Foulkes

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what arrangements he has made for additional help for pensioners, the disabled and those on supplementary beneft with their high heating costs because of recent exceptionally cold weather; and if such aid may be made available without the production of the previous year's fuel bills.

Mrs. Chalker

I refer the hon. Member to my reply to the hon. Member for Newcastle-under-Lyme (Mr. Golding) on 18 January 1982. [Vol. 16, c.61.] If the claimant cannot produce the previous year's fuel bill, the local office will apply a formula to the current bill. A copy of the guidance describing the formula and its application has gone to local offices and has been placed in the Library of the House.

Mr. Winnick

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if the Government will now provide assistance to those receiving rent and rate rebates, but who do not receive supplementary benefit, to help pay their fuel bills; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Chalker

I refer the hon. Member to the reply which my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister gave to him today.

Mr. Winnick

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if the Government will now extend the £1.65 weekly assistance towards the payment of fuel bills to all pensioners on supplementary benefit; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Chalker

A further extension of the automatic assistance with fuel costs available through the supplementary benefits scheme cannot be afforded in the present economic circumstances. Those entitled to supplementary benefit, who have particular difficulties in meeting their fuel bills due to the recent severe weather, may be eligible for a special payment for this purpose and should inquire at their local social security office.

Mr. Winnick

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what sum is taken into account of a person's savings who is applying for help to pay fuel bills under the Government's latest scheme for those on supplementary benefit; and what steps are being taken to publicise the available assistance.

Mrs. Chalker

As with all claims made under the single payments regulations, any savings in excess of £300 are deemed to be available towards the cost of the item or items claimed—the fuel bill in this instance. My right hon. Friend issued a press notice last week giving full details of the arrangements for dealing with such claims; as part of the general publicity, a Central Office of Information tape will be issued soon to all local radio stations and regional information officers are taking every opportunity to publicise the available help at the local level.