§ Dr. GodmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many applications for social fund loans from his Department's two local offices in Greenock and Port Glasgow were refused on the grounds of inability to repay such loans; and if he will show this figure as a percentage of all applications for loans from these two offices in 1988–89, 1989–90, and 1990–91 to date.
§ Mr. ScottThe administration of the social fund is a matter for Mr. Michael Bichard, the chief executive of the Benefits Agency. He will write to the hon. Member and copies of his letter will be placed in the Library and the Public Information Office.
§ Dr. GodmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many people were claiming income support or supplementary benefit in (i) residential care and (ii) nursing homes for each year since 1979 at his Department's offices in Greenock and Port Glasgow.
§ Miss WiddecombeI understand from Mr. Michael Bichard, the chief executive of the Benefits Agency, that the information is not available and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.
§ Dr. GodmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what are the latest figures for the number of persons on income support in Greenock and Port Glasgow who have (i) poll tax arrears for which they are subject to a liability order, (ii) social fund loan repayments, (iii) directed repayments for fuel and lighting arrears, (iv) rent arrears and (v) other debts.
§ Miss WiddecombeThe administration of income support is a matter for Mr. Michael Bichard, the chief executive of the Benefits Agency. He will write to the hon. Member with such information as is available and copies of his letter will be placed in the Library and the Public Information Office.