Written question asked by Gareth Thomas (Labour) on Tuesday, 22 October 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 7 November 2002. It was answered by Nicholas Brown (Labour) on Thursday, 7 November 2002 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Dept for Work and Pensions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, how many complaints have been received about late payment of benefits by the Harrow Benefits Agency in the last 12 months; and if he will make a statement. - Inc figures.

Answer: Mr. Gareth R. Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many complaints have been received about late payment of benefits by the Harrow Benefits Agency in the last 12 months; and if he will make a statement. [77228] Mr. Nicholas Brown: Over the last 12 months, a total of 1,051 complaints have been received at the Harrow Social Security Office regarding late payment of benefits. The last 12 months have seen substantial change in what was Harrow Benefits Agency and a period of industrial action which has had some impact on performance. The Harrow Social Security Office now forms part of the Jobcentre Plus District for Brent, Harrow and Hillingdon. The District has already begun an improvement programme including re-training for staff in some areas of their work. This is already showing improved results in customer service and performance, with a corresponding reduction in the number of complaints received. There were 153 complaints about late payments of benefit in October 2001. By October 2002 there were only 13 complaints.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 77228; 392 c640W;392 c656-7W
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Complaints Administrative delays Payments Social security benefits Social Security Benefits Agency Harrow
Contains statistics: Yes
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk