HC Deb 02 November 1992 vol 213 c94W
16. Mr. Stern

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what evidence he has of improvements in the service offered by the social security offices as a result of a computerisation of the benefits system.

Mr. Burt

The first stage of a major programme to bring computers to the Department's local offices was completed in July 1991.

This has led to significant improvements in the service provided to the public. The time taken to process income support and retirement pension claims is much reduced and many routine activities such as benefits uprating and Christmas bonus payments are now automated.

These improvements have been achieved without additional cost to the taxpayer.