HC Deb 17 February 1986 vol 92 cc65-6W
Mr. Gordon Brown

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether, in the course of examining eligibility of severe weather payments, and the amount paid, cash may be deducted if there are additional heating costs due to illness in the family.

Mr. Newton

I refer the hon. Member to the guidance issued by the Chief Adjudication Officer on 6 December 1985, a copy of which is in the Library.

Claimants who need extra help with heating costs because they or a member of their household suffer from a long term illness or disability may be eligible for a weekly heating addition of £2.20 or £5.45 a week, depending on the severity of the illness or disability.