§ Mr. WebbTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will estimate the number of people who had to make a claim for the 2001–02 winter fuel payment; and of that number how many failed to do so by 31 March. [50990]
§ Mr. McCartneyFor winter 2001–02, an estimated 500,000 people became newly entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment. At least 255,00 of these people were paid automatically.
Exact numbers of people who need to claim are not available. However, by the deadline of 30 March, around 220,000 claims forms have been received. It is up to the individual to choose whether to claim.