§ Mr. Sproatasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if Giro cheques in respect of social security benefits can be cashed at places other than post offices; if so, where; and what action is taken by his Department over Giro cheques exchanged for cash in public houses, hotels, or off-licence stores.
§ Mr. OrmeYes. Although Giro cheques issued by my Department are cashable at post offices, they can be paid into a bank account. If the sum involved is large, the Department crosses the Giro cheque and advises the beneficiary that if he does not possess a bank account he may be able to find someone who knows him—for example, a friend or tradesman—who will give him cash in exchange for the cheque. My Department is not concerned with the way in which the beneficiary chooses to obtain his cash.