§ Mr. SteenTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what changes he is making to the availability of benefits for disabled people; when they will come into effect; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BurtNew regulations come into effect today. They will mean that the presence of a person who is registered blind is ignored for the purpose of the living alone rule when deciding whether a disabled person qualifies for the severe disability premium. This change recognises that someone who is blind should not be expected to care for a severely disabled person. It applies to income support, housing benefit and council tax benefit and will give worthwhile extra help to those who qualify.
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