§ Mr. Alfred MorrisTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what developments there have been in regard to the provision of indoor/outdoor powered wheelchairs for all permanently disabled children and adults requiring them for independent mobility on the basis recommended by the Government's working party chaired by Professor—now Lord—McColl in 1986, further to the Adjournment debate on this subject on 1 July; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. BowisI reiterate the remarks I made during the constructive debate on 1 July at columns 1124–28. I made it clear that the issue of wheelchairs, including powered indoor/outdoor wheelchairs, is a matter for health authorities and national health service hospital and community care units—trusts—in the light of their resources and priorities, but I have set up a departmental working group to look at all aspects of such a scheme and it will take evidence from experts. I have asked for a report to be made to me by the end of October.