§ Mr. Freesonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) when he expects to publish his Green Paper outlining proposals for pensions and other benefits to be paid into bank accounts; if he will allow recipients of child benefit to choose the method of payment; how much he estimates his proposals will save; how this figure is arrived at; and if he will make a statement;
(2) if he will give an assurance that there is no intention to compel any recipients of child benefit to receive that benefit four weeks in arrears;
(3) which categories currently receiving child benefit he is currently considering allowing to retain the option as to whether the benefit is paid direct into their bank account; and what representations he has received, and from whom, to widen the categories having such a choice.
§ Mr. Patrick JenkinI expect very shortly to publish a consultative document setting out the Goverment's response to the report by the Social Services Committee on "Arrangements for Paying Social Security Benefits". This document will explain the Government's ideas for possible changes in the frequency of paying child benefit and for paying certain benefits into bank accounts where beneficiaries voluntary choose this payment method. It will also indicate the Government's views on which mothers should be able to continue with weekly payment of child beneft if they wish. The Government will not take final decisions on their proposals until there has been a period of consultation.