§ Mr. SteenTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what consultations he has held with groups representing disabled children under five years of age; and what plans he has to make finance available to help the parents of severely-disabled under-fives with the costs of transportation for hospital visits. [68801]
§ Mr. BayleyThe Government's proposals for people with long-term illnesses and disabilities were outlined in the recent consultation document "A New Contract for Welfare: Support for Disabled People". Consultation ended on 8 January and 342 responses were received. Many of these came from organisations representing disabled people, including three from organisations specifically representing disabled children.
Our proposals included extending the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (currently £35.85 a week) to severely disabled 3–4 year olds with a mobility problem. This has been widely welcomed. This help would be neither means tested nor subject to a contribution condition, would be tax free and would give access to the Motability Scheme. No attempt is made to specify how families should spend Disability Living Allowance.