§ Mr. WebbTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what is his intended timetable for allowing local authorities to receive permissive powers to allow agency and contractor staff to determine benefit claims. [9543]
§ Malcolm WicksWe will shortly begin informal discussions with local authorities with a view to introducing permissive powers from spring 2002. In addition to this we will fully consult with the Local Authority Associations and take account of any views expressed by other interested parties.