§ Ms WalleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many people in North Staffordshire are on incapacity benefit; of those who have been on this benefit for three years or more, how many have been called back on (i) a six-monthly basis, (ii) a 12-monthly basis and (iii) an 18-monthly basis; and with what results. [93659]
§ Mr. BayleyThe administration of Incapacity Benefit is a matter for the Chief Executive of the Benefits Agency, Peter Mathison. He will write to my hon. Friend.
Letter from Peter Mathison to Ms Joan Whalley, dated 19 October 1999:
The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question asking how many people in North Staffordshire are on Incapacity Benefit (IB); of those who have been on this benefit for three years or more, how many have been called back on (i) a six-monthly basis, (ii) a 12-monthly basis and (iii) an 18-monthly basis; and with what results.Information is recorded on the total number of constituents claiming IB at Hanley Benefit Office which covers the North Staffordshire area. The number of claimants receiving IB from Hanley Benefit Office is 25,940 and of these 15,160 have been receiving that benefit for three years or more.Statistical information on the timing of re-examination of claims is not maintained by the Benefits Agency. However, it is expected that on a national basis, 4% of claimants will be referred to Medical Services for the All Work Test on a three month basis. 16% every six months, 19% every 12 months and 8% every 18 months.I hope this information is helpful.