HL Deb 16 July 2003 vol 651 cc141-2WA
Lord Hoyle

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether people, particularly pensioners, who wish to collect their pensions or other benefits in cash from their local post office will continue to be able to do so. [HL3879]

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Work and Pensions (Baroness Hollis of Heigham)

Following the move to direct payment, customers who wish to do so will be able to continue to collect their benefit or pension at the post office. They will need to choose one of the account options that can be accessed at post offices.

The Department for Work and Pensions is providing customers with information (including letters and leaflets) which clearly sets out the account options as part of the move to payment direct into accounts. This information material sets out the key features of the various accounts and explains how people can access their money at the post office, if they wish to do so. Customers can choose the account which best suits their needs and circumstances.