§ Mr. MeacherTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what arrangements he has made for a review of the security of civil servants working in the Child Support Agency; if he will sanction extra resources for managers to implement measures which will help to allay staff fears over their safety, with particular reference to stringent procedures for dealing with incoming mail and the provision of escorts for field visits; and what he proposes in respect of the compulsory wearing of name badges and staff identifying themselves over the telephone or in correspondence as required by the citizens charter.
§ Mr. BurtMeasures to ensure the safety of Child Support Agency staff are the responsibility of Ros Hepplewhite, the chief executive, who has ensured that comprehensive and professional security is provided for all the staff. There are strict procedures for the safe handling of incoming mail including the use of X-ray machines. Procedures are also in place to minimise the risk to visiting officers which include accompanied visiting where there is concern for personal safety.
The agency has a policy of giving names and wearing name badges as a matter of course. This is in the interest of providing good customer service to clients. It is recognised, however, that some staff may feel concerned about giving their names and those fears are treated sympathetically.
These areas are very sensitive and the chief executive and I are keeping them under close review.