§ Mr. CanavanTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to provide protection for people, with particular reference to senior citizens, from the effects of cold weather. [12896]
§ Mr. Raymond S. RobertsonA generous package of measures are in place to assist vulnerable people particularly older people to cope with the effects of cold weather. These include cold weather payments giving extra help towards additional heating costs; the home energy efficiency scheme providing loft insulation, draughtproofing and energy advice; and the "keep warm this winter" campaign providing a free telephone helpline.