§ Ms. WalleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will take steps to enable claimants in receipt of benefit and allowances to have an energy-saving heater installed in their homes.
§ Mr. PortilloSingle payments for heaters are available to supplementary benefit claimants if they, or a member of the assessment unit, are over pension age or chronically sick or disabled. Claimants who are moving into unfurnished accommodation for good reason, or who have been receiving supplementary benefit for at least 12 months, may also be able to qualify for help. The amount payable is £30, which claimants are free to spend on a suitable heater of their own choice.