§ Lord Molloyasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they consider that those caring for elderly or disabled relatives receive sufficient financial compensation for the care they undertake; and, if not, what further financial provision will be made for such people.
§ The Minister of State, Department of Social Security (Lord Mackay of Ardbrecknish):Carers have access to the full range of social security benefits, depending on their individual circumstances. Expenditure on Invalid Care Allowance, which is specifically aimed at carers of sick and disabled people, has increased from £ 345 million in 1992/93 to an estimated £ 530 million in 1994/95, an increase of 46 per cent. in real terms, and is expected to increase by around 11 per cent. in real terms in the next financial year. We will continue to keep financial provisions for carers under review.