Written question asked by Lord Field of Birkenhead (Labour) on Monday, 21 November 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 24 November 2005. It was answered by Baroness Primarolo (Labour) on Tuesday, 29 November 2005 on behalf of the Treasury.

Tax Credits

Question: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer pursuant to the written statement of 26 May 2005, Official Report, columns 22–23WS, on tax credit overpayments, with how many voluntary sector bodies discussions have been held on providing more active support and advice for families claiming tax credits; and on what dates.

Answer: I refer to the minutes of evidence taken before the Treasury Sub-Committee on Wednesday 26 October 2005. I informed Members that HMRC is discussing with the Citizens Advice Bureau how they can best work together with a view to developing pilots to support claimants better, including offering face-to-face contact with the most vulnerable groups.The Department is also working with the HMRC Tax Credits Consultation Group, which includes representatives from the voluntary sector and other interested parties, to speed up improvement in key areas. In addition to the group's regular meetings, a number of working parties have been set up. Working parties, made up of representatives and officials, are considering a range of issues such as a review of Code of Practice 26, the Helpline, HMRC tax credit website and complaints and redress.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 440 c351W;440 c351W; 31547
Session: 2005-06
Related items: Tax Credit Over-Payments
Thursday, 26 May 2005
Written statements
House of Commons
Subjects: Overpayments Welfare tax credits Voluntary organisations
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk