Personal independence payment (Pip) claimants will not see changes to their eligibility this year, the social security minister has vowed.
Sir Stephen Timms took a question about the Motability scheme, which Pip claimants can use to lease a new vehicle, if they receive the higher mobility rate of the benefit.
He said the Government will hold off making changes to the Pip eligibility criteria until he has finished a review into the payments.
It is thought Chancellor Rachel Reeves could reform parts of the Motability scheme, to make savings at next month’s Budget.
Labour backbencher Emma Lewell, the South Shields MP, told the Commons: “Motability is a lifeline for people with disabilities for getting to health appointments, studying, maintaining employment and so much more.
“Cuts to the scheme risk increased health needs and increased unemployment likely to cost much more than any short-term savings.
“Does (Sir Stephen) agree that before any proposed cuts, a proper impact assessment is absolutely vital?”
Sir Stephen replied: “I can assure (Ms Lewell) that there will be no changes to the eligibility conditions for the Pip mobility component or indeed the other aspects of Pip until the conclusion of the review, which I will be leading and co-producing with disabled people.
“And that’s expected to report in the autumn of next year.”
The Times earlier this month reported that BMWs, Mercedes and other premium car brands could be removed from the Motability scheme.
Ms Reeves is also considering changes to the way Motability drivers are taxed, saving around £1 billion, according to the newspaper.
Conservative MP for New Forest East Sir Julian Lewis said: “When severe mental illness strikes, it can be devastating and totally debilitating.
“But the problem from his department’s point of view is that its symptoms are invisible.
“There have been reports about people faking mental illness in order to gain benefits.
“Is he satisfied that his department has appropriate checks in place?”
Sir Stephen replied: “Yes, I think appropriate checks are in place, but as I’ve just mentioned, we are undertaking this review of the Pip assessment and we will need to look carefully – and we’ll be doing this together with disabled people – look carefully at the way these decisions and judgments are made.”
Debt fee to be scrapped for victims seeking protection from abusers
Do not cut cash Isa allowance in the Budget, senior MPs warn Reeves
Investment scams pushing up amount of money being lost to APP fraud – UK Finance
Boost to homeowners as four major lenders lower mortgage rates
Here’s how much your mortgage repayments could change if you need a new deal
