§ Mr. MeacherTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will set up an inquiry into the extent of closing of benefit claim offices during official opening hours.
§ Miss WiddecombeWe have no plans to do so. Mr. Michael Bichard, the chief executive of the Benefits Agency will write to the hon. Member and copies will be placed in the Library and the Public Information Office.
§ Mr. MeacherTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security, pursuant to his answer of 5 November,Official Report, column 90, what information is available concerning the closure of benefit claim offices during official opening hours; and what procedures or regulations govern closure during official opening hours and what discretion is left to the local managers.
§ Miss WiddecombeThe closure of benefit claim offices is a matter for Mr. Michael Bichard, the chief executive of the Benefits Agency. He will write to the hon. Member and copies will be placed in the Library and the Public Information Office.