§ Mrs. BeckettTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will amend the social fund manual to make it clear that, where part of an applicant's needs can be met out of capital over £500 or money available from other sources, a community care grant up to the suggested maximum amounts in annex 4, or more if appropriate, should be made for the balance of the amount needed.
§ Mr. PortilloThe Social Fund Manual refers both to the relevant legal provisions under which an award may be made and to Secretary of State's direction 27, which relates to the £500 capital rule. However, it will be amended at the earliest opportunity to clarify the effects of both the £500 capital rule and the requirement to take into account in full other resources available to meet the applicant's need.