Written question asked by Martin Smyth (Ulster Unionist Party) on Wednesday, 27 October 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 3 November 2004. It was answered by Lord Spellar (Labour) on Wednesday, 3 November 2004 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what plans the Government has to introduce a non-means tested payment for carers who stay at home to look after elderly parents and relatives; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Rev. Martin Smyth: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans the Government have to introduce a non-means tested payment for carers who stay at home to look after elderly parents and relatives; and if he will make a statement. [195217] Mr. Spellar: Carer's allowance, which is a non-means tested social security benefit, is already available to carers aged 16 or over who provide regular and substantial care to people, including older people, in receipt of attendance allowance, or the equivalent rates of disability living allowance care component, or an equivalent benefit paid under the war disablement pensions scheme, or the industrial injuries disablement benefit scheme.

Secondary information