HC Deb 28 February 2000 vol 345 cc57-8W
Dan Norris

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps the Government are taking to ensure benefit recipients avoid costs and bank charges arising from planned changes in the way benefits are paid to automated credit transfer. [110237]

Mr. Rooker

I have been asked to reply.

We have decided to move to automated credit transfer (ACT) from 2003 as a modern, more secure and efficient method of paying benefits. The Department has already begun discussions with the banking industry on issues surrounding benefit recipients, charges and other matters. These discussions will continue.