Lloyd backs campaign for blind people

12.00.00am GMT Mon 16th Mar 2009

Blind and visually impaired people across the UK are urging their local MP's to back the RNIB's campaign to add an amendment to the Welfare Reform Bill currently going through Parliament. The amendment, if passed, will allow people with a severe sight loss to claim the higher rate mobility component of the DLA (Disability Living Allowance)

Stephen Lloyd, Lib Dem parliamentary campaigner is backing the initiative: "I have spoken with our Treasuary team in Westminster and our Shadow Chancellor, Vince Cable MP, has committed to finding the additional funds necessary to pay for this increase. This small rise of only £29 per week would enable blind people to be far more independent which is not only the right thing to do but plain common sense as well."

Stephen added: "I know the Eastbourne Blind Society have also been active in supporting the campaign and I applaud all the good work they do for blind and visually impaired people in our Town."

Alderman Ron Parsons said: "I appreciate Stephens support on this issue which, if passed, will make a real difference to the many blind and visually impaired people like myself in Eastbourne. However, its disappointing that members of the Labour Government and Shadow Conservative Ministers feel unable to support the change to the law as it so obviously would be of benefit to their blind and severely, visually impaired constituents."

Alderman Parsons added: "Although our own MP stated he supported the proposal, he also says he is unable to vote for the amendment in Parliament. It is a shame that Mr Waterson will not listen to his conscience on this vital issue."