§ Mr. GaleTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security (1) how many organisations(a) he and (b) his Ministers have met that represent wheelchair users in Kent; and if he will list them; [53029]
(2) if he will list the names of the organisations that (a) he and (b) his Ministers have (i) met and (ii) plans to meet in connection with his review of the access to benefits available to disabled people. [53028]
§ Mr. DenhamOur Green Paper 'New ambitions for our country: A New Contract for Welfare' pledged that those who are disabled should get the support they need to lead a fulfilling life with dignity, free from discrimination. In taking our reforms forward, we have given a clear commitment to consult.
As part of this commitment we have set up a Disability Benefits Forum with organisations of and for disabled people to discuss how disability benefits can be reformed to ensure that they go to those who need them most and that the gateways are clear and robust.
The Forum initially met on 17 June and continue to meet regularly. Membership includes a number of national/umbrella organisations detailed in a written answer from the then Secretary of State for Social Security, on 17 June 1998, Official Report, columns 243–44, several of which represent wheel chair users.
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§ Mr. DenhamDetails of the statistical information collected, the frequency and timetable for release, relating to Social Security Benefits, can be found in a publication named "Guide to ASD Statistical Projects Revised May 1998". A copy of this publication can be found in the Library. The information collected covers all areas of Great Britain and can produce analyses for Scotland.
No information is collected on Social Security expenditure for Scotland.
The list contains information on statistical publications that are due to be released during the summer adjournment: