§ Mr. Chris Smithasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what criteria he uses in determining whether adequate facilities for the washing and drying of clothes exist in particular dwelling, when applications for laundry additions are refused.
§ Mr. WhitneyAn addition to supplementary benefit can be awarded for laundry costs incurred where a claimant's home lacks "suitable washing or drying facilities". Decisions on claims for laundry additions are a matter for the independent adjudicating authorities who take account of the circumstances of each individual case. Guidance from the chief adjudication office on the interpretation of these provisions is contained in paragraph 4861(2) of the S manual, a copy of which is in the Library. I understand that the CAO is currently considering expanding his guidance on the interpretation of "suitable washing or drying facilities".