Wouldn’t be surprised if this Government means tested PIP.
Daily Mail readers would have a field day if they knew that wealthy people and those in full time employment could get Motability cars.
I’m sure that they would because, as with the last time that they lambasted the scheme, they wouldn’t explain what the purpose of the scheme is or how it works. They would imply (as they did last time) that the cars are ‘free’ with no mention of the £12,000 sacrificed benefits and high advance payments. They also wouldn’t explain that two-thirds of those entitled to join Motability decide that they can do better with their money outside the scheme.
Whether we agree with it or not, we live in a country where we have a benefits system that is geared towards those with the lowest (or no) incomes. Disability, however, does not discriminate and those with severe disabilities rightly have certain relief on things like VAT on adaptations and, of course, the VAT free Motability scheme.
Many disability related things are already means tested. Because my wife and I both worked hard and saved hard, we have to pay for adaptations in our house that others will have provided free of charge. We are now having to have carers visit when I am not at home and, again, because we have been sensible financially, we have to pay for this in full when others will get it free. I get a Carers allowance – and it’s taxed. Thankfully, the Motability scheme doesn’t discriminate at the point of access but, of course, those with low means can apply for grants when most of us have to pay in full and therefore are effectively subsidising those who receive grants, so in reality there is an element of means testing within the scheme
Of course, the Daily Mail wouldn’t explain any of the above because, to do so, it would be a complete ‘non-story’!