§ Mr. Greenwayasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied with the system whereby certain benefits and pensions are paid by Giro; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NewtonYes. Over 100 million Girobank cheques are issued annually by the DHSS and the Department of188W Employment in payment of a wide range of social security benefits. They are used extensively where the benefit claimed is likely to be of short duration. They are also used for longer-term benefits if payment cannot be made by order book or payable order.
If my hon. Friend is aware of an individual case in which difficulties have arisen and will let me have details, I will look into the matter.