§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will now take steps to extend the provision of automatic gear boxes through Motability for all leg amputees; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NewtonFor war pensioners who obtain a car through Motability, the Department make grants for any adaptations, including the provision of an automatic gearbox, that are necessary to enable the pensioner to drive. The circumstances in which war pensioners, including leg amputees, can qualify for an automatic gear-box will be extended later this year. All war pensioners who are unable to use a foot clutch will be regarded as satisfying the criteria for an automatic gear-box. This will include all left-leg amputees and those right-leg amputees who are unable to operate a manual gear change.