§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security on what basis he arrived at the figure 457W for the maximum amount allowed for funeral payments from the social fund.
§ Mr. Roger EvansThe proposed cap for social fund funeral payments is based on the average funeral payment award for 1993–94.
§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans he has for his Department's exceptions to the capping of funeral payments under the social fund for instances of special needs with special reference to the weight, size and height of the deceased, pacemaker removal and out-of-hours removals.
§ Mr. Roger EvansThe proposed cap on social fund funeral payments of £875 is intended to be a sum sufficient to meet the costs of a straightforward funeral which is dignified and respectful, or to make a very substantial contribution towards it. It is not intended to meet the cost of all variations and eventualities.
§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how(a) funeral directors and (b) others will be kept informed of procedures following the capping of funeral payments under the social fund.
§ Mr. Roger EvansI shall be writing to the funeral directors' associations. Advice will be made available locally through revised forms and leaflets. District offices will be encouraged to liaise with local funeral directors.