§ Mr. Russell BrownTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what performance targets have been set for the Social Security Agency for the current financial year. [122440]
§ Mr. George HowarthThe following targets have been set with the objective of continuing to provide high levels of service to customers. I am satisfied that the targets represent a demanding challenge for the Agency. The targets will be included in the Agency's 2000–03 Strategic and Business Plan, which is due for publication this month. A copy of the Plan will be placed in the Library. The targets are as follows:
- 1. Customer Satisfaction
90 per cent. of customers to regard the Agency's services as satisfactory or better.
- 2. New Deal initiatives
To increase the numbers of Lone Parents participating in the scheme by 25 per cent. year on year.To have 5 per cent. of those Partners of the Unemployed targeted agree to participate in the scheme.
- 3. Resource Management
To achieve cash efficiency savings of the order of £1.4 million.
- 4. Benefit Accuracy
Disability Living Allowance—To pay the correct amount in at least 88 per cent. of cases.Incapacity Benefit—To pay the correct amount in at least 95 per cent. of cases.Income Support—To pay the correct amount in at least 89 per cent. of cases.Jobseeker's Allowance—To pay the correct amount in at least 91 per cent. of cases.
- 5. Fraud
To achieve a 5 per cent. reduction in the level of fraud and error in Income Support and Jobseeker's Allowance.
- 6. Financial Recovery
Recovery of overpayments—£3.7 million.