§ John MannTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what date has been set for all existing Child Support Agency assessments to be made using the new assessment criteria system. [176463]
§ Mr. PondI refer the hon. Member to the Written Answer I gave the hon. Member for Castle Point (Bob Spink) on 18 December 2003,Official Report, column 1092W.
§ Mr. Ian TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (1) what plans he has to re-examine the use of statutory rates of interest for child support departures or variations where a parent has assets; [177406]
(2) what evidence he has collated to support his Department's assumption that the assets of non-resident parents have achieved the long-term sustainable interest rate of 8 per cent., net of tax, during the last five years. [177408]
§ Mr. PondWe have no plans to re-examine the use of the statutory rate of interest in such cases. We are satisfied that the use of this rate provides a reasonable and simple basis for ensuring that children receive maintenance which reflects the financial standing of the non-resident parent.