HC Deb 29 January 1986 vol 90 cc557-8W
Mr. Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what rates of heating additions are presently available; and if he will list the criteria for receiving them.

Mr. Newton

The detailed criteria for receiving heating additions are contained in regulations 11 to 12 and schedule 4 (part 1) to the Supplementary Benefit (Requirements) Regulations 1983 (S.I. 1983, No. 1399). The rates of addition presently available are shown in the following table. Where a claimant is receiving the long-term rate, the available scale margin is offset against the value of additional requirements (including heating additions with the exception of that paid in respect of children under 5) when deciding the extra benefit paid.

Rates of heating addition (November 1985)
Type of heating addition Rate
£
Health and/or accommodation heating addition
Basic rate 2.20
Higher rate 5.45
Disabled persons' heating addition 5.45
Type of heating addition Rate
£
Sick or disabled persons' heating addition 2.20
Age-related heating addition
Child under 5 2.20
Householder over 65 2.20
Householder over 85 5.45
Estate rate heating addition
1 to 4 rooms 4.40
5 rooms or over 8.80
Central heating addition*
1 to 4 rooms 2.20
5 rooms or over 4.40
Specific charge heating additions

* Payable only to those continuously entitled to a central heating addition since before 5 August 1985.

Varies depending on charge.