§ Lord Morris of Manchesterasked asked Her Majesty's Government:
What recent consideration has been given to the adequacy of government funding for the Mobility Equipment Fund and the Driver's Fund established to help customers of Motability with the more severe disabilities; and when they expect the long-term future of the two funds to be determined. [HL1611]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Social Security (Baroness Hollis of Heigham)The Government are committed to maximising the potential of severely disabled people through mobility solutions to enable them to enjoy the same opportunities for education and employment as others, and are aware of the continuing pressure there has been on the Mobility Equipment Fund and Drivers Fund over recent years. A review of the Mobility Equipment Fund began in May 1997 to examine the adequacy of arrangements in respect of provision of mobility solutions for severely disabled people who were not being helped from Motability's charitable102WA funds, and research is shortly to commence among past customers of the scheme. On completion of the review, expected at the end of 1998, the Government will be better placed to make judgments on the future of the funds.