HC Deb 30 April 1980 vol 983 cc540-1W
Mr. Peter Robinson

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will introduce a combined application form for a number of related social security benefits to enable applicants to be assessed for a number of benefits at the one time.

Mr. Alison

A comprehensive pilot scheme was recently carried out over a period of one year in the Down district council area to test the effectiveness of providing a single claim form for a wide range of means-tested benefits administered by various Government Departments and agencies in Northern Ireland. The results of the experiment are at present being evaluated and a report will be prepared in due course.