§ Mr. Simon ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what representations he has received concerning the late payment of back-dated winter fuel allowance. [156342]
§ Mr. RookerThere have been a number of representations from hon. Members and the public. Statistics on these representations are not available.
Our intention has always been to make payments for past winters as soon as practically possible. The first payments were issued in the week commencing 19 June last year, just two months after the claims process was up and running.
485WClaims for past winters are not subject to any time limits. As it is up to the individual to choose whether and when to claim, we are still receiving and processing new claims.
§ Mr. WebbTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will estimate the cost of the advertising campaign to inform men aged 60–64 of their eligibility for backdated Winter Fuel Payments. [157051]
§ Mr. RookerThe information is not available in the format requested. The total cost of the overall communication campaign for Winter Fuel Payments which ran from April 2000 was £1.1 million. The campaign, which featured national and regional press advertising, information leaflets and posters in outlets such as post offices, supermarkets and libraries, included messages for those seeking retrospective Winter Fuel Payments alongside information for people who get their payments automatically and for those who have to claim.
§ Mr. WebbTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans he has to continue with the advertising campaign informing men aged 60–64 of their eligibility for backdated Winter Fuel Payments. [157052]
§ Mr. RookerThe communications strategy for delivery of Winter Fuel Payments for 2001 is currently being developed.