§ Mr. McGradyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) how many applications were made for the severe weather heating allowance at the social security offices in Downpatrick, Ballynahinch, Newcastle, Kilkeel, Banbridge and Newry (County Down) during the winter of 1986–87;
(2) how many successful applications were made for severe weather heating allowance and how much money was paid by the social security offices in Downpatrick, Ballynahinch, Newcastle, Kilkeel, Banbridge and Newry (County Down), during the winter of 1986–87.
§ Mr. NeedhamInformation is not readily available in the precise form requested. The available figures are as follows: 77W
Social Security Office Number of payments Amounts Claims disallowed Downpatrick 1,331 6,655 334 Ballynahinch 602 3,010 268 Newcastle 931 4,655 335 Kilkeel 835 4,175 223 Banbridge 1,784 8,920 307 Newry 4,794 23,970 1,363
§ Mr. McGradyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will increase the amount payable in respect of severe weather heating allowance to old age pensioners in Northern Ireland; and if he will consider making the allowance available throughout the year.
§ Mr. NeedhamNo.