Mr. RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security when he will make winter fuel payments to men over the age of 60; if men have to claim these payments; and if he will make a statement. [110033]
§ Angela EagleAn announcement on the arrangements will be made soon. We will be able to identify some of those newly eligible for a payment through the benefits systems; however the majority will have to make a claim.
§ Ms WalleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what resources he has made available to the Benefits Agency to expedite the processing of applications by men aged 60 and over for winter fuel allowance; and when application forms will be available to enable claims to be paid in Stoke-on-Trent. [109986]
§ Angela EagleAn announcement on the arrangements will be made soon. To ensure that payments are made accurately and securely to those who are newly eligible, a project team has been set up to deal specifically with winter fuel payments.