§ Mr. SteenTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security on what basis mileage payments are set for people in receipt of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance for visits to hospitals. [159685]
§ Mr. BayleyThe mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is intended to contribute towards the extra mobility costs incurred by severely disabled people as a result of their disability. The Department makes no specific provision, through DLA or other benefits, for the reimbursement of travel costs for visits to hospital.
However, the hospital travel costs scheme, which is part of the NHS low income scheme, allows NHS trusts to reimburse patients on low incomes or in receipt of qualifying benefits for the costs, including private car mileage costs, of travel by the cheapest means of transport available to keep hospital appointments. Qualifying benefits for the schemes include income support and family credit, but not DLA. The schemes are the responsibility of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Health.