§ Maria EagleTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security when his Department will conduct a quinquennial review of the Benefits Agency. [143499]
§ Angela EagleAll executive agencies are required to undertake a formal review of their organisation every five years to examine whether further improvements in customer service, use of modern technology and value for money could be made.
In March this year my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister announced plans to develop a brand new agency which will provide a single point of access for advice on looking for work and accessing benefits. The new agency will draw together the Employment Service and those parts of the Benefits Agency dealing with people of working age.
This announcement effectively overtook the quinquennial review of the Benefits Agency which was planned to be undertaken this year in parallel with a review of the Employment Service. Following consultation, my right hon. Friend the Minister of State, Cabinet Office has formally agreed to cancel the requirement for a quinquennial review of the Benefits Agency. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Employment will be making an announcement about the review of the Employment Service.