§ Mr. BeggsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what the average time taken in the last 12 months was to process assessments on low income pensioners' entitlements to an alternative to coal fired heating; and what plans he has to introduce targets to speed up the assessment process. [137663]
§ Mr. SpellarThe Warm Homes Plus Scheme provides the free installation of an oil or natural gas central heating system for low-income people over 60 years of age, living in owner occupied or privately rented accommodation, and who are entitled to certain passport benefits. In the last 12 months, the assessment process (from initial referral, to survey of the property) has taken, on average 31 days. This process is continually kept under review to ensure the optimum response time to the large number of applications for assistance from the Scheme.
45WThe Housing Executive's heating replacement programme for its housing stock does not involve an assessment of the tenants' entitlements; work is carried out on the basis of the age and condition of the appliance which is to be upgraded.