Should disabled benefits be means tested?

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In light of celebrity whopper Katie Jordan Price (net worth circa 45m) admitting to having her disabled child shuttled to and from school at taxpayers expense, is this right? No doubt the child will get some kind of DLA and motability type benefit also.

Now, obviously disabled people should have complete access to these type of services, however is it right that the taxpayer foots the bill if the individual has vast wealth? Is the system broken? Should the state only be there to pick up the tab when one is incapable of paying oneself?

My view is yes, the system is broken.

Thoughts?

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vescaegg said:

I knew I had lost when they all started throwing around that she was 'entitled' and therefore should do it.

The answer to your question is 'get new friends'.

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Willy Nilly said:

It is the boy that is disabled and not either of his wealthy parents.

So? They are legally responsible for him until he's 16. What's your point?

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She's worth 45m and the state has no money.

Do you think you should be paying for his taxis or her?

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Sticks. said:

What do you think about this point though?

I agree with it. My old man (retired) has two private pensions, and a state pension. He also recently has been diagnosed with a progressive muscle wasting disease and now gets DLA and motability along with his blue badge. He doesn't need either, but he gets it because the system allows him to.

As I said, I think the system is broken.

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kowalski655 said:

hornetrider said:

..... He also recently has been diagnosed with a progressive muscle wasting disease and now gets DLA and motability along with his blue badge. He doesn't need either, but he gets it because the system allows him to.......

If he doesnt have the need for help with care & getting around then why is he getting DLA? Did he tell porkies on the claim form?

Don't be silly. I'm saying financially he doesn't need the allowance it gives him. He needs the blue badge though as he really struggles with walking (uses a stick) and can't do steps at all.

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Rovinghawk said:

I was against her getting anything based on her wealth (plus the fact that I detest her) but on balance I'd accept she's paid in more than she's likely to take out.

That's not the point though is it. If everyone got out what they put in, there's be no money for the truly deserving who've never been able to put in, or put in little over their lives.

The welfare state in my view should be there as a safety net for those who can't afford certain services. Being a gazillionaire and still being able to claim is all sorts of wrong.