§ 17. Mr. Michieasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many physically and mentally handicapped people living in residential and nursing homes are now receiving reduced supplementary benefit as a result of the board and lodging regulations; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NewtonIn July 1985 it was estimated that less than 2,000 people in residential care and nursing homes were receiving transitional protection which was due to expire on 28 April 1986. Many of these people will have made alternative arrangements. Others will have been helped by last November's increases in the limits. The remainder may qualify for an extension of transitional protection under the Secretary of State's discretionary power to extend the period when exceptional hardship would otherwise result.