§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will list his priorities for additional spending on the disabled should additional resources become available; and if he has identified any particular project.
§ Mr. RossiThe Government have recently outlined their expenditure plans for the next few years in "The Government's Expenditure Plans 1983–84 to 1985–86" (Cmnd. 8789—II). These plans cover expenditure on benefits for disabled people, and on health and personal social services. I have nothing to add to what is set out there.
§ Mr. Wardellasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what measures he is taking to ensure that people on invalidity benefit are aware that from 1 April if they do not change to supplementary benefit as opposed to rent-rate rebates to top up this income, they will be unable to go on to the long-term rate of supplementary benefit after one year.
§ Mr. RossiI assume that the hon. Member is referring to the provisions of reg 2(6) of the Supplementary Benefit 529W (Housing Benefits) (Requirements and Resources) Consequential Amendments Regulations 1982. DHSS local office staff have been instructed to bear the provision in mind when giving advice to claimants.