Personal Independence Payments

Debate between Natascha Engel and Esther McVey

Thursday 13th December 2012 Commons Chamber

[Esther McVey]

I thank my hon. Friend for his question. We have been listening for the past 18 months. We have consulted all disability groups and disabled people and have engaged with absolutely everyone. We will continue to do that. There will be an independent review in 2014 and we will adjust, listen and do what we need to do to ensure that we deliver the correct benefit.

[Natascha Engel (North East Derbyshire) (Lab)]

The House of Commons Library note on the personal independence payment has a large section on how seriously injured armed forces personnel and veterans will be affected. The Minister’s statement was silent on that. Will she outline how that group will be affected and, most importantly, will she define what is meant by “seriously injured”, because unless that is clearly defined they could simply be weasel words?

[Esther McVey]

I thank the hon. Lady for her question. That was not in my statement because it will come under a separate system under the Ministry of Defence. The support will be there and it will come through a different system.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Natascha Engel and Esther McVey

Monday 10th December 2012 Commons Chamber

[Esther McVey]

My hon. Friend has understood correctly and explained it perfectly.

[Natascha Engel (North East Derbyshire) (Lab)]

What will be the total estimated cost of moving people into smaller homes as a result of the bedroom tax, and how does that compare with the total estimated saving to be made?

[Esther McVey]

There are major savings to be made and continual assessments will be done, but, as I said, in the round we have to find accommodation for other people and people have to understand the cost of the accommodation that fits their need.