§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what action he has taken to draw the attention of health authorities to the requirements of sections 4, 7 and 8A of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970 as amended by the Disabled Persons Act 1981; if he is satisfied with the provision for disabled people in all recently completed hospitals; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. Geoffrey FinsbergThe Department issues at regular intervals a "Register of Buildng Legislation" which presents in accessible form the legislation that may be pertinent to the planning and design of health buildings. The most recent issue of this document makes reference to the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970 and to the Disabled Persons Act 1981.
Responsibility for hospital buildings rests with health authorities, and the Department is not normally provided with detailed design information about facilities for the disabled. However, I am satisfied that sufficient guidance is available to authorities to enable them to make proper provision for disabled persons.
§ Mr. Johnasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if, under the new housing benefit scheme, disabled people will be allowed to for go higher needs allowances to which they are entitled; if, as a result, they will become eligible for topping up payments and obtain the advantages of the supplementary benefit scheme, including possible graduation to the long-term rate after one year; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NewtonI shall let the hon. Member have a reply as soon as possible.