§ Mr. HinchliffeTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many Benefits Agency offices provide out-of-hours services; and what proposals he has for the future of this provision. [3262]
§ Mr. Roger EvansThe administration of income support is a matter for Peter Mathison, the chief executive of the Benefits Agency. He will write to the hon. Member.
Letter from Peter Mathison to Mr. David Hinchliffe, dated 13 November 1996
The Secretary of State for Social Security has asked me to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question asking how many Benefits Agency (BA) offices provide out-of hours-services; and what proposals he has for the future of this provision.The Out of Hours Service (OOHS) is provided on an area basis rather than by individual BA offices and all 13 Area Directorates provide this service.We are currently undertaking a review of the OOHS. A consultation exercise to assess the impact of a reduction or withdrawal of the OOHS was conducted during August and early September. The results of the exercise are now being evaluated and all issues will he considered before a decision on the future of the service is made. It is anticipated that this decision will be made by the end of the year.I hope you find this reply helpful.