HC Deb 26 January 1953 vol 510 cc670-1
65. Mr. Janner

asked the Minister of National Insurance whether he is aware that a large number of postal drafts sent to persons entitled to sickness benefit are lost in the course of post each year; that these drafts are distributed in such a way that any persons can cash them; and whether he will institute a new scheme of distribution to avoid the present loss to public funds and the inconvenience caused to those who are entitled to the payments.

Mr. Turton

No, Sir. The number of postal drafts lost in course of post is inconsiderable in relation to the large number issued each year.

Mr. Janner

Is the Minister aware that in spite of the fact that the number lost may be inconsiderable in proportion to the number sent out, it causes a considerable hardship to the people concerned if they do not receive them? Will he see that a person who has lost a draft gets relief in the interval before it is found?

Mr. Turton

Every care is taken to see that these postal drafts are replaced as soon as possible. There has to be some delay to obviate the double issue of drafts. In the case of which the hon. Member is thinking, the draft was handed in to a house three doors away owing to failure to address the draft properly. His constituent received that draft within four weeks and every step was taken to expedite the matter.