§ Mr. SteinbergTo as the Secretary of State for Social Security what proposals he has to reinstate the benefits inquiry line. [8074]
§ Mr. Roger EvansThis is an operational matter for Peter Mathison, the chief executive of the Benefits Agency. He will write to the hon. Member.
Letter from Peter Mathison to Mr. Gerry Steinberg, dated 16 December 1996:
The Secretary of State for Social Security has asked me to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question asking what proposals he as to re-instate the Benefits Enquiry Line.I assume your question refers to the Benefits Agency Freeline which closed in July of this year. There are currently no plans to re-instate this service. However, the Benefit Enquiry Line (BEL) for people with disabilities remains open and continues to operate as normal.BEL is a confidential advice line providing general information about all Social Security benefits to people with disabilities, their carers and representatives. Help can also be given to complete some disability benefit claim forms.Customers who require help or advice can contact BEL by telephoning 0800 882200. Deaf or hearing impaired customers who have access to a textphone can call on 0800 243355.I hope you find this reply helpful.