§ 33. Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many local authorities charge disabled people in receipt of supplementary benefit for their home helps.
§ Mr. NewtonThis information is not collected centrally.
§ 50. Dr. McDonaldasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations his Department has received with regard to the charging of disabled people on supplementary benefit for their home helps; what has been his response; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NewtonI refer the hon. Member to my hon. Friend's reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Brigg and Cleethorpes (Mr. Brown) on 1 April, at column493, since when very few representations have been received about charging for home helps whether or not the people were disabled or in receipt of supplementary benefit. Our view remains as stated on many occasions that we would prefer those on supplementary benefit, whether disabled or otherwise, not to be charged.