HC Deb 17 October 2001 vol 372 cc1255-6W
Dr. Cable

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what representations he has received from carers' organisations regarding an increase in the invalid care allowance; and if he will make a statement. [7507]

Maria Eagle

We have received from carers' organisations a number of representations on this and other aspects of financial support for carers. Some of these were in response to the Government's recent consultation on our proposed changes to provide entitlement to Invalid Care Allowance (ICA) to those aged over 65, to make the benefit payable for 8 weeks after the death of the person being cared for, and to change its name to the more appropriate "Carer's Allowance". These enhancements to ICA, which are part of a £500 million per annum package

Mrs. Liddell

My Department has no building or refurbishment projects planned for this financial year or next, other than on-going minor maintenance work.