§ Mr. Rookerasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is his Department's policy and practice in respect of crossed Girocheques issued to supplementary benefit claimants who do not have a bank account.
§ Mr. NewtonFor security reasons, Girocheques issued by social security offices for amounts of £150 and above are normally crossed; those for £300 and above are endorsed "A/C Payee Only". A beneficiary who does not have a bank account and cannot readily negotiate a crossed Girocheque or other means can be issued with an uncrossed Girocheque for an amount under £150 and a crossed Girocheque for the balance. Exceptionally, amounts of £150 and above can be paid in full by uncrossed Girocheques.
The Department of Employment uses different crossing limits, but will also replace crossed Girocheques with uncrossed Girocheques where necessary.
§ Mr. Johnasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what would be the cost of extending entitlement to supplementary benefit to pregnant girls (a) in the holiday period after leaving school and (b) while at school; and how many people would benefit in either case.
§ Mr. NewtonInsufficient evidence is available on which to base a valid estimate.