§ Mr. Denzil DaviesTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what, in the latest financial year for which figures are available, were the total savings accruing from hospital downrating. [113074]
§ Mr. BayleyThe information is not available in the format requested. Such information as is available is in the table.
Estimated savings from hospital down rating, by benefit, 1998–99 £ million Benefit Estimated savings Retirement pension 55 Incapacity benefit/severe disablement allowance 45 Disability living allowance (mobility component) 5 Notes:
1. Savings estimates are based on samples of administrative data. It is assumed that the weeks of each sample are typical of the financial year as a whole. Figures are rounded to the nearest £5 million.
2. Estimates for income-related benefits (Income Support, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit) not available. In November 1999 there were an estimated 1,000 Income Support claimants who had been in hospital for between 4 and 52 weeks, and 2,000 claimants who had been in hospital for over 52 weeks.
3. Disability Living Allowance mobility savings arise from transitionally protected Higher Rate Mobility cases.
53W4. Disability Living Allowance (other than transitionally protected cases), Attendance Allowance and Invalid Care Allowance estimates are not included as these benefits generally cease after four weeks or less in hospital.