HC Deb 07 December 1987 vol 124 cc76-7W
Mr. McGrady

To 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. Needham

Information is not readily available in the precise form requested. The available figures are as follows:

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. McGrady

To 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. Needham

No.

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