§ 12. Mr. HaynesTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will make a statement on the arrangements for paying the community charge rebate.
16. Mr. Robert HughesTo ask the Scretary of State for Social Security if he will make a statement on the arrangements for paying the rebate of the community charge.
§ Mr. Peter LloydWe estimate that one in four of those liable for community charge in Great Britain will benefit from the effective help given by the rebate scheme to those on low incomes. In addition, the special element built into 670 the rates of the income-related benefits will help nearly 9 million people with the minimum contribution they have to make from their own resources.
§ Mr. HaynesWill the Minister let the Secretary of State know that I am here, and I am always here? Is he aware that last Friday we met Church leaders in Nottinghamshire? The have their feet on the ground in the community and know about the problems of people in poverty. I use the word poverty because it is there. When will the Government spend some money on telling the people about their rights to rebates for the community charge? Wake up!
§ Mr. LloydWe always notice when the hon. Gentleman is here. I am grateful that he has had time to ask his question as it provides a further opportunity to advertise the rebate scheme. As the hon. Gentleman knows there are editorial comments, leaflets, advertising and the fact that local authorities make their own arrangements for letting people know. There will be no doubt at all that all those eligible for a rebate will have had plenty of opportunity to learn that fact.