§ 48. Mr. Raceasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied with the operation of the Supplementary Benefit (Single Payments) Regulations.
§ Mr. NewtonYes, in general, but we are keeping their operation under careful review. The chief supplementary benefit officer issues guidance to benefit officers on the interpretation of these regulations with the aim of ensuring consistency in their application. The social security advisory committee is continuing to monitor the operation of the supplementary benefit scheme, with special reference to the operation of these regulations, and I look forward to its conclusions. The social security policy inspectorate has also been considering the operation of these regulations and I hope to have its report later in the year. If the hon. Member has a particular difficulty in mind, I shall be glad to look into it.