§ Baroness Wilkinsasked Her Majesty's Government:
When they intend to implement their commitment to extend direct payments under the Community Care (Direct Payments) Act 1996 to 16 and 17 year-olds as announced by the Secretary of State for Health, the right honourable Alan Milburn, at the Annual Social Services Conference on 29 October; and whether this will require legislation. [HL312]
§ Lord Hunt of Kings HeathPrimary legislation is required before local authorities can make direct payments to disabled 16 and 17 year-old children. The Carers and Disabled Children Bill was introduced in another place by my honourable friend the Member for Stalybridge and Hyde (Mr Pendry) on 15 December and will allow local authorities in England and Wales to make direct payments to disabled 16 and 17 year-olds.