HC Deb 30 January 1998 vol 305 cc423-4W
Mr. Cousins

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many claims for incapacity benefit have so far been assessed under the Benefits Integrity Review; and how many claims have been(a) set aside, (b) reduced and (c) increased (i) in total and (ii) by region. [24721]

Mr. Denham

One of our key aims is to rebuild integrity in, and public support for, the Social Security system and the way in which public money is spent. Benefits should go to those who are properly entitled to benefit. This is why we have continued with Benefits Integrity Project.

The administration of this programme is a matter for Peter Mathison, Chief Executive of the Benefits Agency. He will write to the hon. Member with further details.

Letter from Peter Mathison to Mr. Jim Cousins, dated 29 January 1998: The Secretary of State for Social Security had asked me to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question regarding the number of claims of Incapacity Benefit (IB) that have been so far assessed under the Benefits Integrity Review; and how many claims have been (a) set aside, (b) reduced and (c) increased (i) in total and (ii) by region. The Benefit Integrity Project (BIP) is not looking at IB claims. The BIP is looking at claims to Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and the analysis you have requested has therefore been provided for DLA. At 30 November, a total of 33,490 cases had been examined of which 6,953 have been changed. Of these changes, 2,232 have been disallowed, 3,880 reduced and 841 increased. Figures for the period to 31 December and subsequent months will be placed in the House of Commons library. Information is not routinely available on a regional basis. I hope you find the reply helpful.