§ Mr. MaddenTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security for what reasons the Benefits Agency out-of-office hours emergency telephone service in Bradford was closed before a national review of the service had been completed; what consultations took place before the Bradford emergency service closed; if he will restore the emergency service in Bradford; and if he will make a statement. [4133]
§ 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. Max Madden, dated 14 November 1996:
The Secretary of State for Social Security has asked me to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question asking for what reasons the Benefits Agency out-of-hours emergency telephone service in Bradford closed down before a national review of the service had 368W been completed; what consultations took place before the Bradford emergency closed; if he will restore the emergency service in Bradford; and if he will make a statement.There has been no closure of the Out-of-Hours Service in the Bradford area. The service continues to operate from Monday to Sunday and for the four week period ended 3.11.96 there were 63 referrals.I hope you find this reply helpful.