HC Deb 09 February 1993 vol 218 c599W
Mr. Michael Brown

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security when he intends to establish an executive agency for war pensioners.

Mr. Lilley

A new War Pensions Agency will be established on 1 April 1994. The agency will be responsible for the assessment and payment of war pensions, the war pensioners welfare service, and the Ilford Park Polish Home in Devon. I am pleased to be able to announce this fulfilment of the Government's election manifesto pledge.

The establishment of a separate agency for war pensions will lead to greater efficiency in the administration of these benefits and provide a higher quality service for war pensioners and war widows, in keeping with the citizens charter.

Recruitment of a chief executive is beginning immediately.