Written question asked by Lord Willetts (Conservative) on Tuesday, 30 January 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 28 February 2001. It was answered by Angela Eagle (Labour) on Wednesday, 28 February 2001 on behalf of the Department of Social Security.

Dept of Social Security

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security, if he will (a) list the circulars, advice and guidelines that have been issued to local Benefits Agency offices in respect of each benefit since May 1997 and (b) place copies in the Library; if he will list the adjudication and operations circulars and guidelines that have been issued to local Benefits Agency offices since May 1997 and place copies of these in the Library. - Includes ref to 232 items of adjudication and decision making guidance, in Library.

Answer: Mr. Willetts: To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security (1) if he will (a) list the circulars, advice and guidelines that have been issued to local Benefits Agency offices in respect of each benefit since May 1997 and (b) place copies in the Library; [148493] (2) if he will list the adjudication and operations circulars and guidelines that have been issued to local Benefits Agency offices since May 1997 and place copies of these in the Library. [151452] Angela Eagle: The Benefits Agency issues guidance to its local offices on decision-making (formerly adjudication) on benefits for which it is responsible. The Agency also issues a wide range of material providing technical support to staff and guidance on operational issues affecting the day-to-day administration of benefits. Since May 1997, the Agency has issued 232 items of adjudication and decision-making guidance. Copies of this guidance are held in the Library. It is impractical to list or place copies in the Library of all items of technical support and operational guidance that have been issued because of the range and diversity of the material. However, if the hon. Member can indicate particular areas of interest, documents can be listed or obtained in line with Open Government principles.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 363 c696W; 148493;151452
Session: 2000-01
Subjects: Benefits rules Publications Social security benefits Social Security Benefits Agency Circulars
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk