§ Mr. David NicholsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what representations he has received regarding the practice of his Department's offices and agencies of referring clients to local citizens advice bureaux; what evidence he has of any increase in this practice; and if he will make a statement on the responsibility of his Department's offices and agencies to assist clients with their inquiries.
§ Miss WiddecombeNeither the Department nor its agencies routinely refer customers to citizens advice bureaux: the provision of information and help on social security matters is, properly, a function of the Department and its agencies. However, customers may be told about the bureaux and other voluntary organisations where, for example, the problem lies outside the Department's area or where benefit is refused and help with an appeal is sought.