HC Deb 02 March 2004 vol 418 cc853-4W
Dr. Evan Harris

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what targets the Pensions Agency has set for the issuing of Winter Fuel Payments to those eligible to receive them as(a) existing claimants and (b) new claimants. [156771]

Malcolm Wicks

There are no targets set for issuing Winter Fuel Payments. The majority of those who are entitled are paid automatically. We aim to ensure their payments are sent to them before Christmas. People who have not previously received a payment and who do not receive a Social Security benefit other than Child Benefit, Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit must claim. Provided they have claimed by the Friday of the qualifying week we aim to send them their payments before Christmas as well.