§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he Will give the average time taken by his Department to send formal acknowledgements of receipt and replies to letters sent to him generally and by Members of Parliament in particular; how these times compare with a stated period as long ago as may be conveniently recorded; and what action he has taken or intends taking to expedite these replies to the taxpayer and their elected representatives.
§ Mr. DeakinsFigures of this kind are not readily available. We aim to reply as quickly as possible to all correspon-108W dence but are seeking at all times ways of improving performance.