Hull MP claims victory for local blind people

Hull North MP Diana Johnson has claimed victory in her campaign to get more support to local blind people.

Under the changes proposed by the Labour Government in the Welfare Reform Bill 26,000 blind people nationally will be entitled to receive the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance.

The intention is to support some 26,000 visually impaired people with their additional mobility costs, allowing them greater freedom to get out and about, either socially or to find work. At current rates this will mean an additional payment worth £29 a week to those who qualify (£1,508 per year).

Diana Johnson MP said: "I am delighted that my efforts to get more help to blind people have been successful and proud that the Labour Government is righting a wrong that discriminated against blind people. When introduced, this change will improve the lives of blind people and their families.

"It can mean people are able to go out to meet friends, to get a job and live life the way most of us take for granted."

James Purnell, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, said: "I pay tribute to the campaign that Diana has led on behalf of blind people in Hull. She made a powerful case on behalf of local people and we are pleased to have been able to include the measure in our Welfare Reform Bill."

Jonathan Shaw, Minister for Disabled People, said: "I know many severely blind people have been waiting to hear this good news. The Labour Government has been working closely with the RNIB to make this possible so I'd like to thank them for all their support."

The Welfare Reform Bill has passed third reading stage yesterday (17 March 2009) in the face of opposition from Conservative, Liberal Democrat and Nationalist MPs. The Bill will provide the additional powers to ensure that people make use of the help made available to them and maximise their employment prospects for the future.

After the legislation finishes going through parliament Ministers will decide on how to implement these changes for blind people.