Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what discussions he has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the effect of charging VAT on the installation, repair or replacement of heating systems in the homes of people with (a) Parkinson's and (b) other progressive conditions in the last 12 months; and if he will make a statement.

The Secretary of State for Health has had no discussion with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the effect of charging VAT on the installation, repair or replacement of heating systems in the homes of people with Parkinson's and other progressive conditions in the last 12 months.

Public Health England has published the Cold Weather Plan for England 2013 which identifies a range of groups at greater risk of harm from cold weather and appropriate actions for those working with these groups to take. Although there is no specific guidance for people with Parkinson’s, individuals with this condition may be included within these at-risk groups.