§ Miss McIntoshTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what recent representations he has 157W received on the length of time taken to process applications for Housing Benefit; and if he will make a statement. [155112]
§ Angela EagleWe have received a number of representations from hon. Members and other interested parties on the length of time taken by some local authorities to process Housing Benefit claims.
Although Housing Benefit administration is the statutory responsibility of local authorities, we are determined to help under-performing authorities to improve standards and build on best practice. Our strategy for reforming Housing Benefit was set out in "Quality and Choice: A decent home for all—The way forward for housing" published in December 2000. Our priority is to work with local authorities to improve administration, drive out fraud and error and promote work incentives.
Raising standards of administration is the biggest challenge facing Housing Benefit today. That is why we have set up the Expert Help Team, bringing together advice and support from experienced local authority managers, the Department's staff and external consultants.
The first local authorities have signed up for this additional help. Hull, Bristol, East Ayrshire and Lambeth are working with the team, and more councils will follow.