- 22. The particular circumstances of the claimant, eg whether or not he is in employment, the type of employment, where he lives, the type of accommodation, the nature of the district—flat, hilly or exposed—should not be taken into consideration when considering whether a claimant is unable or virtually unable to walk.
- 23. Similarly, inability to use public transport or the non-availability of public transport are not factors to be taken into account in appraising how far the claimant's condition meets the medical criteria for eligibility.
- 24. The need for an escort is another factor which is normally irrelevant in this context (it may, however, indicate possible entitlement to attendance allowance—see leaflet NI.205). If, however, the claimant's walking movements have to be physically supported by someone else the medical criteria may be satisfied."
§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services, pursuant to the answer to the right hon. Member for Manchester, Wythenshawe on 19 July, Official Report, c. 50–51, concerning entitlement to mobility allowance, when he expects the further decisions of the social security commissioner, referred to in that answer, to be available.
§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services, pursuant to his answer to the right hon. Member for Manchester, Wythenshawe, on 19 July, Official Report, c. 50–51, if he will be ready to review the guidance issued to medical practioners on eligibility of deaf or blind people for mobility allowance when the further decisions of the Social Security Commissioner, referred to in that answer, are received.
§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will take steps to collect centrally figures on the number of deaf or blind people who are in receipt of mobility allowance.