HC Deb 22 October 1984 vol 65 c520W
Mr. Michie

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) if he intends to take further steps to issue guidance to medical practitioners on the medical assessment of mentally handicapped mobility allowance claimants in respect of the principles laid down by a tribunal of Social Security Commissioners, decision RM-1–83;

(2) if he intends to take steps to redesign the form on which examining medical practitioners and the medical board record their findings in respect of claims for mobility allowance so that such forms draw the attention of the medical authorities to the relevance of mental disablement in respect of the manner in which claimants walk;

(3) if he intends to amend the mobility allowance regulations to make it clear that the concept of walking includes the ability to walk to a desired place.

Mr. Newton

The points at issue on this question are complex and have been the subject of much case law. We shall review the need for further action when we have the decision on a relevant appeal which has been made to the House of Lords.