§ Mr. Simon ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what the Benefits Agency's role is in promoting benefits take-up. [151365]
§ Angela EagleWe are keen to ensure that people are in an informed position to make choices on whether to claim benefit and we are the first Government to encourage the active pursuit of take-up initiatives as a means of tackling pensioner poverty. The Benefits Agency was instrumental in running the national take-up campaign for the minimum income guarantee. Additionally, it is involved in a wide range of national and local initiatives to ensure accurate and accessible information is available, including leaflets, information officers, liaison with local groups, and talks.