HC Deb 04 July 1994 vol 246 c51W
19. Mr. Pike

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what percentage of the social fund is currently spent on administration.

Mr. Scott

The cost of administering the social fund was equivalent to 35 per cent. of the gross expenditure, plus recoveries, in 1992–93, the last year for which figures are available. Each application to the discretionary part of the social fund receives a detailed personal assessment whether or not an award is made and recoveries cost money as well. However, the recycling of social fund loans ensures that more help goes to more people.