HC Deb 12 June 1969 vol 784 cc298-9W
Mr. Barnett

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services why the family allowances branch of his Department is asking parents of officially adopted children to complete special questionnaires.

Mr. Ennals

It is necessary to obtain from parents who adopt children sufficient information to determine whether the claimant became entitled to an allowance before the date of the adoption.

Mr. Barnett

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services in what respects his Department differentiates between adopted children and other children.

Mr. Ennals

None. Special enquiries are necessary to determine the date on which a prospective adopter acquires and a natural parent loses title to benefit.

Mr. Barnett

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services for how long his Department has been asking parents of adopted children to complete form No. FAM122; why this questionnaire is required; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Ennals

Form FAM122 has been in use since February, 1960. It is explained on the form itself that the information it asks for is required for the purpose of determining the claimant's entitlement to an allowance for the child from the date when the child came to live with her (i.e. a date before the date of adoption).