§ 18. Mr. WilkinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what representations he has received on the reform of housing benefit. [84008]
§ Angela EagleWe set up the Housing Benefit Simplification and Improvement Project with local authority representatives last autumn to review the existing rules; administration; and service delivery of Housing Benefit. We have received written and oral representations from a number of professional, voluntary and charitable organisations with an interest in Housing Benefit.
§ 31. Mr. Campbell-SavoursTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what progress has been made on the review of housing benefit. [84023]
§ Angela EagleWe have worked with local authorities to consider ways of simplifying and improving the current system of Housing Benefit. Details of the proposals are being considered and will be announced in due course.
§ Mr. FieldTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what proportion of local authorities have agreements in place with the Post Office to prevent redirection of housing benefit girocheques. [85227]
§ Angela EagleThe national agreement with the Post Office not to redirect Social Security related local authority post came into operation on 1 February 1999. To date 56 local authorities are operating the do not redirect service.