§ 40. Mr. Tony Lloydasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many representations he has received respecting the proposed severe disablement allowance; and what proportion has been substantially hostile.
§ Mr. NewtonWe have received 16 representations about severe disablement allowance. These generally welcome the ending of the household duties test, but express some disappointment that we were unable to adopt the solution of paying non-contributory invalidity pension to married women on the same basis as to men and single women. Reservations are also expressed about details of our proposals, notably the age 20 rule and the 80 per cent. disablement test. We nevetheless remain convinced that severe disablement allowance represents the fairest and156W most satisfactory method of resolving the difficulties caused by the controversial household duties test and ensuring that the best use is made of the limited extra resources available for spending on disabled people.
§ 48. Mr. Ron Daviesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will carry out a programme of consultation with organisations of the disabled before taking further action towards introducing a severe disablement allowance.
§ Mr. NewtonI have recently discussed our proposals with representatives of the Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation, the Child Poverty Action Group, the Disability Alliance, MENCAP, the Multiple Sclerosis Society and the Spastics Society. In addition I have had a discussion with the Social Security Advisory Committee, have visited the Association of Deaf-Blind and Rubella handicapped's family centre and have attended a meeting between the All-Party disablement group and RADAR. The Committee stage of the Health and Social Security Bill is also giving ample opportunity for a thorough debate of all the issues involved.