§ Mr. GibbTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many people have gone to interviews for crisis loans but have been unable to make applications due to a shortage of application forms in the last three months. [39774]
§ Mr. DenhamThe administration of the Social Fund 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. Nick Gibb dated 27 April 1998:
The Secretary of State for Social Security has asked me to reply to your recent parliamentary question asking how many people have gone to interviews for crisis loans but have been unable to make applications due to a shortage of application forms in the last three months.We are not aware of any customers being unable to apply for a crisis loan due to a shortage of application forms in the last three months. However, we are aware that some offices have had difficulty in obtaining supplies of Social Fund Budgeting Loan and Community Care Grant application forms. Contingency plans have been put in place and it is anticipated that this position will be rectified shortly.I hope that this reply is helpful.