asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received concerning local authorities who withdraw assistance given under Section 2 of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970 although the need which the authority had accepted has not diminished; what reply he has given; and if he will make a statement.

I have received representations in three cases. I understand that one is sub judice and it would not be appropriate for me to intervene at this stage. In the second, I have written to the hon. Members concerned reiterating what I said in reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Mitcham and Morden (Mr. Douglas-Mann) on 13th December 1976.—[Vol. 922, c. 609.]—What I then said was that, according to the advice I have received, once need has been accepted the services given under the section cannot be withdrawn in the absence of a reduction of need. Representations about the third case have only just been received and I am making inquiries.