§ Miss Geraldine SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many people over 60 in Morecambe and Lunesdale are eligible for the Winter Fuel Allowance. [127642]
§ Angela EagleIn the previous winter (1999–2000), 18,928 people in the Morecambe and Lunesdale constituency received a winter fuel payment automatically, by virtue of their entitlement to a Social Security benefit. Actual numbers of beneficiaries for winter 2000 will not be known until later in the year (the qualifying week is 18 September 2000). In addition 10,087 claims forms/mailshots have also been issued to people in the constituency, who based on Departmental records, may be eligible for winter fuel payments for both previous winters and this coming winter as a result of the European Court judgment.
A national and regional advertising campaign will commence early July 2000 to encourage people who have not received a claim form to contact the Winter Fuel Helpline.