HC Deb 21 October 1971 vol 823 c199W
Mr. Meacher

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what proportion of persons subject to the four-week rule is orally informed that the rule is being applied; what proportion is informed by letter or other means; and in each case how long notice is given before benefit is cut off.

Mr. Dean

At present, instructions provide for all persons given limited awards to be informed of the fact orally, and in writing on the notice of their award. A new procedure has been devised which will shortly add a memorandum to the oral advice. A four weeks' allowance implies that benefit may be withheld at the end of that period.