§ Mr. Terry FieldsTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what will be the role and responsibilities of the benefits agency which will be coming into being next April; how its establishment will affect current functions and staff of his Department; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. Gillian ShephardThe social security benefits agency, to be established in April 1991, will provide for the cost-effective administration of social security benefits, and other services including the handling of claims reviews and appeals, and arranging payment.
The agency will bring together under a single line management structure the (currently separately organized) central offices and regional organisation. In addition a number of support functions currently carried out within headquarters will pass to the agency.
The principal aim of introducing agencies within the Department is to improve services to all customers of the Department. Part of this aim will be to streamline management structures to improve efficiency and effectiveness.