MPs debate DLA

Wednesday 01 December 2010

Debate shows strong opposition to the removal of the mobility component of DLA for people in residential care

The government's decision to remove the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for people living in residential care homes has been scrutinised in parliament.

On Tuesday 30 November, MPs took part in a debate on DLA at Westminster Hall, following the government's decision to cut the benefit. Concerns were raised from all sides of the house.

The debate was led by Tom Clarke MP, who said: "We are faced with confusion and fear about what the government advocates. People in residential homes are terrified about the removal of the mobility component of their DLA. It is too important a matter for vulnerable people to be left in the dark about how they will be affected."

Mencap is also concerned about this issue and the impact it will have on many people with a learning disability.

During the debate, Shadow Minister for Disabilities Margaret Curran MP quoted Mencap's views on this matter: "Without this vital lifeline, many disabled people in care will lose much of their independence, be unable to take part in many community activities they enjoy and have fewer opportunities to meet with friends and family. We cannot support these crude cuts."

Responding to the debate, Minister for Disabled People Maria Miller MP said: "We, as a government, owe a duty to disabled people to promote their independence and equality...We are absolutely committed to ensuring that the independence of disabled people living in care homes is maintained, and that is our prime responsibility."

Esther Foreman, Mencap's campaigns and policy manager said: "Mencap will continue to work closely with our supporters and other charities in the disability sector to lobby the coalition government on this issue and highlight some of the unintended consequences of this decision. The debate was a valuable opportunity for MPs to make the minister aware of their constituents' concerns and why this decision will have an adverse impact on many people with a learning disability."

Read the full debate

Join Mencap's campaign to reverse the decision to cut DLA for people in residential care