Heating Allowance (Supplementary Benefit Recipients)

Mr. Canavan
asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will consider raising the maximum heating allowance for people receiving supplementary benefit.

Mr. Deakins
The rates of heating additions, which are a matter for the Supplementary Benefits Commission were last increased in November 1978 and the highest standard rate is currently £2·55 a week. Local officers have discretion to  pay more than the standard rates where circumstances justify this.