§ Mr. CousinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what expansion of the number of benefits paid by automatic credit transfer is assumed in his Department's planning.
§ Miss WiddecombeThe method of payment of Social Security benefits is a matter for Mr. Michael Bichard, the chief executive of the Benefits Agency. He will write to the hon. Member and a copy will be placed in the Library.
Letter from David Riggs to Mr. Jim Cousins, dated 1 April 1993.
As Chief Executive of the Benefits Agency, it is the responsibility of Mr. Michael Bichard to answer questions about relevant operational matters. However, as Mr. Bichard is away at the moment I am replying on his behalf to your recent Parliamentary Question to the Secretary of State for Social Security asking what expansion of the number of benefits paid by automated credit transfer is assumed in his Department's planning.By the end of 1994 enhanced computer systems will enable payments to be made by ACT for Income Support, Invalidity Benefit, Sickness Benefit, Severe Disablement Allowance and Unemployment Benefit in addition to those benefits already paid by this method.I hope you find this reply helpful. A copy will appear in the Official Report and a copy will also be placed in the Library.