§ Mr. KennedyTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he has any plans to review or alter the provision of application forms for(a) family credit and (b) other Department of Social Services benefits at post offices; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. Gillian ShephardThere are no plans to alter the provision of the family credit application form, FC1, at post offices. FC1 is the only application form available at post offices.
The facilities offered by the Post Office are used to display leaflets which inform about the whole range of benefits available and advise how claims can be made. The eight leaflets currently displayed include FB2, "Which Benefit?", a general guide to benefits, as well as those concerned with community charge benefit, housing benefit and income support. The leaflet about the new capital limits will shortly be on display.
The leaflets and posters displayed are regularly reviewed to ensure best use of the facilities offered to inform the public.