HC Deb 11 November 1980 vol 992 cc181-2
Mr. Dobson

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services, if he will make a statement setting out the steps which he is taking to improve the take-up benefits.

Mr. Prentice

This month the Department will be running an advertising campaign further to improve the take-up of family income supplement among working families with low incomes. We shall also be publishing a new edition of our guide "Which Benefit?" and this, like other leaflets about individual benefits, will include the new rates. They will be available from local social security offices.

Mr. Dobson

Does not the Minister accept, however, that during the time of this Government-induced depression, it is vital that those who are entitled to benefits claim them? Will he, therefore, commend to other local authorities the admirable initiative of the Strathclyde council in promoting the take-up of benefits in its area? If not, why not?

Mr. Prentice

No, Sir. The activities of the Strathclyde council in this respect were just as much a piece of cheap political propaganda—[Hon. Members: "Rubbish"]—as are so many of the speeches that we hear from Opposition Members. But, of course, I accept that we want to see the utmost take-up of benefits in any period—whether it be a recession or any other period—by people who are entitled to them.

Mr. Alfred Morris

While I endorse the point raised by my hon. Friend the Member for Holborn and St. Pancras, South (Mr. Dobson), may I ask whether the Minister is aware that many of the organisations of disabled people have become more concerned that, in some localities, there are fewer and fewer benefits to take up? Is he aware of the case of East Sussex county council? What action is he taking about the charge that that council has now entirely suspended the operation of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act in the matter of assessing the needs of disabled people?

Mr. Prentice

That matter does not arise from this question, which relates to State benefits. But once again, the right hon. Gentleman has jumped the gun on information that will not be confirmed. If he looks into the matter, he will find that the situation in East Sussex is nothing like the situation which he has tried to imply.