§ Mr. Thompsonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will arrange for the payment of retirement pension direct to the beneficiary's bank account where the beneficiary so desires.
§ Mr. DeakinsA joint working party of officials of my Department and representatives of National Giro, the Inter-Bank Research Organisation and Bankers Automated Clearing Services Ltd., which has been considering this matter, has now reported. The working party's report is under consideration and my right hon. Friend expects to reach a decision shortly. It would then of course be necessary to allow time for any new arrangements to be implemented.