HC Deb 19 December 2000 vol 360 c101W
Mr. Webb

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many calls have been received by the Winter Fuel Payment Helpline since the Chancellor's pre-Budget statement; and if he will estimate the maximum number of people who were on hold during such calls at any one time. [143093]

Mr. Rooker

The administration of benefits is a matter for Alexis Cleveland, the Chief Executive of the Benefits Agency. She will write to the hon. Member.

Letter from Alexis Cleveland to Mr. Steve Webb, dated 18 December 2000: The Secretary of State for Social Security has asked me to respond to your recent Parliamentary Question asking how many calls have been received by the Winter Fuel Payment Helpline since the Chancellor's pre-budget statement, and to estimate the maximum number of people who were on hold during such calls at any one time. As of 13 December, 179,050 calls have been received where the customer has spoken to an adviser. A recorded message and extended opening hours were introduced from 8 December. Numbers of callers on hold fluctuate from second to second, it is not possible to give an estimate of the number of people on hold at any one time. I hope this is helpful.

Mr. Webb

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many people have contacted the Benefits Agency this year regarding(a) overpayment and (b) underpayment of winter fuel payments; and of these, how many were from widows who have received only half of their entitlement. [143092]

Angela Eagle

The administration of benefits is a matter for Alexis Cleveland, the Chief Executive of the Benefits Agency. She will write to the hon. Member.

Letter from Alexis Cleveland to Mr. Steve Webb, dated 18 December 2000: The Secretary of State for Social Security has asked me to respond to your recent Parliamentary Question asking how many people have contacted the Benefits Agency this year regarding (a) overpayment and (b) underpayment of winter fuel payments; and of these, how many were from widows who have received only half of their entitlement. The information requested is not available, as detailed information on the types of queries received is not recorded. I am sorry I cannot be more helpful.