HL Deb 05 May 1994 vol 554 cc72-4WA
Earl Russell

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to Lord Astor's Written Answer of 18 April (WA1), how long the procedures for claiming income support on grounds of unavoidable severe hardship have been under active consideration; and when they expect to be able to announce their conclusions.

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Social Security (Viscount Astor)

The claims process has been under review throughout the operation of the severe hardship provision and a number of improvements have been introduced in that time. The nature of any further improvements will be made in due course. The procedures for claiming income support on the grounds of unavoidable hardship remain under active consideration and conclusions are expected in due course.