asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many handicapped children failed to receive £10 Christmas allowances because on the relevant date they were at boarding school or otherwise away from home.

I regret that the information is not readily available and could be obtained only at the cost of a disproportionate amount of staff time.

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether she will initiate legislation to provide that disabled children who are at home over the Christmas period or any substantial part thereof will receive Christmas allowances.

No. It was found essential for administrative purposes to confine the special payment to those who were entitled to one of the qualifying benefits during the relevant week.