§ Mr. Ioan Evansasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what progress he is making in revising the claim forms and leaflet for the non-contributory invalidity pension for disabled housewives.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisThe design of the existing leaflet and claim form was one of the subjects covered in our extensive consultations with interested bodies before introducing this new benefit in November 1977. As was inevitable with a benefit which broke new ground, practical experience has shown the need for amendments. We have accordingly consulted with a number of organisations which have assisted claimants to pursue their claims and appeals. We have taken their comments into account as well as those of individuals who have offered advice in preparing revised drafts of the leaflet and claim form. The revised drafts reflect also our experience of dealing with the 63,000 claims so far received. Copies of the drafts are being sent this week to all the bodies we have consulted inviting them to comment by the end of August. Their further comments will be taken into account in the final preparation and printing of the revised documents which will then be brought into use at the earliest possible date.