§ Ms PrimaroloTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1), pursuant to her answer of 29 November,Official Report, column 301, on the low income scheme, how many applications in 1992–93 for health benefits were (a) incorrectly filled in and returned to the claimant and (b) not successful in receiving help towards the item claimed; and what is the average financial help awarded to the claimants;
(2) if she will publish the proposals made by the review into health benefits in respect of reforming or simplifying the AG1 claim form.
§ Dr. MawhinneyProposals for simplifying the national health service low income scheme claim form AG1 remain under consideration. Implementation of any changes will be discussed with those who contributed to the review, including the National Association of Citizens Advice Bureaux, before they are introduced. During 1992–93, approximately 18 per cent. of all claim forms were returned to the claimant for additional information or clarification. Full or partial help was offered on each completed claim form except for 3,000 where a capital holding in excess of £8,000 precluded an award. It is not possible to quantify the average financial help awarded. Holders of low income scheme certificates are entitled to receive national health service services free or at a reduced cost as and when these are needed during the currency of a certificate; they do not receive a specified financial award.