HC Deb 30 November 1999 vol 340 cc88-9W
Dr. Cable

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security (1) what statistics are collected(a) nationally and (b) by region, on the time it takes to process housing benefit; [99865]

(2) which national organisation monitors and investigates performance in processing housing benefit claims within target periods. [99867]

Angela Eagle

The Audit Commission in England and Wales, and the Accounts Commission in Scotland, collect and publish data annually for all local authorities administering housing benefit. This includes data on the number of claims determined within 14 days. Data are also collected and monitored by this Department. The Benefit Fraud Inspectorate is responsible for reporting to the Secretary of State on the administration of housing benefit by local authorities.

Dr. Cable

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans he has to bring the housing benefit service within the Best Value Framework. [99868]

Angela Eagle

A comprehensive range of best value performance indicators for the delivery of housing benefit was included in the recent joint Department of Environment, Transport and the Regions and Audit Commission consultation exercise ("Performance Indicators for 2000–01"). Indicators will be finalised by the end of 1999 and will cover the key aspects of local authorities' performance in delivering housing benefit. We are committed to driving forward improvements in the benefit services authorities provide so that they are faster, more accurate and more secure while also achieving value for money and taking account of the views and needs of local people.

Mr. Kirkwood

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security when he expects to introduce measures to reform housing benefit. [99011]

Mr. Stephen O'Brien

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will make a statement on the timetable for bringing forward his proposals for housing benefit reform. [99901]

Angela Eagle

We intend to publish a Housing Green Paper in due course. This will present proposals for housing benefit within the overall strategy for housing.