asked the Secretary of State for Social Services why it is his policy not to make the mobility allowance available to epileptics.

Eligibility for mobility allowance depends upon the inability or virtual inability to walk; and any epileptic who satisfies this criteria can qualify for the allowance. While the inclusion of alternative criteria related, for example, to the need for a companion would extend eligibility to some sufferers from epilepsy who would not otherwise qualify, it would also change the character of the allowance and greatly increase its cost. If the right hon. Gentleman has any particular difficulty in mind, I hope that he will let me know.