Cost of Energy People with Disabilities 2022-12-05
2022-12-05
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Discussion on the adequacy of benefits to support disabled individuals with rising energy costs.
What assessment has been made by Cabinet colleagues regarding the adequacy of benefit levels to help disabled people cope with high energy costs?
Ministers discuss policy proposals across Government. The Government is spending £37 billion this year and committing to a further £26 billion next year to support low-income and disabled people with rising costs, including cost of living payments.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific evaluation requested was not provided; instead, general figures were given without addressing the adequacy assessment directly.
General Figures
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
300,000 disabled individuals lost eligibility for the warm home discount scheme, affecting their finances.
Earlier this year, 300,000 disabled people were removed from the warm home discount scheme. What does the Minister have to say to these worried individuals who now miss out on £150 support?
I am happy to raise eligibility issues with Ministers. This Government provides comprehensive support worth £37 billion this year and £26 billion next year, including discretionary help for specific needs.
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Assessment & feedback
The question about worried individuals was not directly addressed; instead, broad support measures were mentioned.
Comprehensive Package
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Since 2010, social security support was reduced by £34 billion. The Equality and Human Rights Commission highlighted the need for a section 23 agreement but it has not been implemented.
The Department for Work and Pensions should enter into a section 23 agreement as identified by the Equality and Human Rights Commission. When will this agreement be presented?
As described to the Work and Pensions Committee, Ministers continue constructive engagement on the section 23 issue and will update as possible.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific timeline for agreement was not provided; instead, ongoing engagement was noted without a concrete date.
Constructive Engagement
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Disabled people struggle with high energy bills, impacting their ability to maintain life-saving equipment.
Many disabled individuals face significant sacrifices due to high energy costs. For instance, Carolynne Hunter's daughter Freya requires oxygen and incurred £17,000 in bills, which were covered by Kate Winslet's donation. When will the Government ensure all disabled people receive necessary support?
I thank the shadow Minister for raising this issue. The Chancellor announced in the autumn statement future work considering social tariffs to help families deal with significant ongoing costs.
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Assessment & feedback
A long-term consideration was noted but no immediate commitment or timeline was given for addressing current needs.
Future Work
Response accuracy