§ David CairnsTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what performance targets he has set for the(a) Appeals Service, (b) Disability and Carers Service and (c) Child Benefit Centre for 2002–03. [46930]
§ Mr. DarlingThe targets I have set the Appeals Service, the Disability and Carers Service and Child Benefit Centre are given below.
Further information on the Appeals Service plans for 2002–03 is contained in their individual business plan, which has been published today. Copies have been placed in the Library.
Business plans for the Disability and Carers Service and Child Benefit Centre will be published shortly.
The Appeals Service Targets 2002–03
Waiting Times
The average waiting time for an appeal to be heard will be no more than 14 weeks from the time of receipt by the Appeals Service;The number of cases over 24 weeks old as at 1 April 2002, will be reduced by at least 30 per cent. by 31 March 2003;For cases returned by the Commissioner, the average waiting time for an appeal to be re-heard will be no more than 10 weeks from the date of return to the Appeals Service in at least 75 per cent. of cases.Local Variations
985WThe range of waiting time variations between our local offices will be reduced by a factor of at least 5 per cent. per annum over a two-year period.Reconsiderations: Applications for review of an initial decision where the application is made on "any grounds" (i.e. dissatisfaction) within one month of the dates of the original decision.
Supersessions: Applications for review of an initial decision where the application is made more than one month after the initial decision.
Appeals: Any case where an independent Tribunal looks afresh at a decision.