HC Deb 04 March 1968 vol 760 cc5-6W
Sir H. d'Avigdor-Goldsmid

asked the Minister of Social Security, whether she will estimate how many requests her Department makes each month to employers for information about their employees' earnings, for the purpose of assessing their entitlement to earnings related benefit.

Mrs. Hart

I regret that this information is not available. Sample checks indicate that references to employers have decreased substantially as claimants become increasingly aware of the importance of keeping their certificate of pay and tax deducted (Form P.60). Where a claimant produces this form to us no reference to an employer is necessary.

Sir H. d'Avigdor-Goldsmid

asked the Minister of Social Security whether she will seek to ascertain individuals' entitlement to earnings related benefit from the records of employee's earnings supplied by employers at the end of each tax year.

Mrs. Hart

This was carefully considered when the scheme was introduced, but was found to be generally impracticable.

Sir H. d'Avigdor-Goldsmid

asked the Minister of Social Security whether she will consider issuing on request certificates of non-entitlement to those who are not eligible for earnings related benefit.

Mrs. Hart

Such notices are already issued to all those who have claimed entitlement to earnings related benefit, but are found not to be eligible for it.