HC Deb 07 March 2000 vol 345 cc613-4W
Mr. Webb

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what assessment he has made of the implication of delays in resolving the problems associated with the

Mr. Rooker

Starting in 2003 we will be moving to a more modern, secure and efficient method of paying benefits through automated credit transfer (ACT). Payment by ACT will become the norm for paying benefits.

We have given an assurance that benefit recipients, whether paid by ACT or otherwise, will continue to have a choice of where they access their cash, with those who wish to collect at post offices still being able to do so. The recent statement about bank charges has no effect on this commitment.

However, we recognise that people will expect to be able to collect the exact amount of their benefits and without incurring charges. Arrangements will be put in place to ensure this happens.