§ Lady HermonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans he has to meet representatives of the Northern Ireland Branch of the National Federation of Sub-postmasters to discuss issues arising from the direct payment of pensions and benefits into bank accounts. [131243]
200W
§ Mr. SpellarThe Social Security Agency and the Post Office have worked closely in developing the Direct Payment programme which is aimed at providing a safer, more convenient, modern and efficient method of paying social security benefits. However, I have no plans to meet representatives of the Northern Ireland Branch of the National Federation of Sub-Postmasters.