Monday, 24 May 1999
The House met at half-past Two o'clock
[MADAM SPEAKER in the Chair]
The Secretary of State was asked—
How many staff are employed in Benefits Agency offices (a) in Inverclyde and (b) in Scotland as a whole; and what was the equivalent figure in (i) 1990, (ii) 1993 and (iii) 1996. [83991]
What progress has been made in improving co-ordination between the Benefits Agency and local authorities in combating fraud. [83992]
What estimate he has made of the number of people in Warrington, North who will benefit from the minimum pension guarantee. [83993]
When he last reviewed his target for the reduction of benefit fraud for the year 1999–2000. [83994]
What plans he has to improve the take-up of war pensions among ex-service personnel and civilians injured by hostile acts in world war two. [83996]
What steps he is taking to ensure that all pensioners receive the benefits to which they are entitled. [83997]
What representations he has received on housing allowances for students from (a) Scotland and (b) England. [83998]
If he will make a statement on the proposed changes to severe disablement allowance. [84000]
What plans he has to increase local authority discretion in respect of the payment of housing benefit; and if he will make a statement. [84001]
If he will make a statement on his policy for the detection of organised benefit fraud. [84002]
What estimate he has made of the cost of linking the minimum income guarantee for pensions to average earnings. [84003]
What plans he has to assist mothers with the costs of maternity. [84004]
What plans he has to minimise fraud in the administration of housing benefit. [84005]
With permission, Madam Speaker, I should like to make a statement about freedom of information, on which I have today published a draft Bill and consultation paper. Copies are available in the...
On a point of order, Madam Speaker. You were here earlier when we heard an almost unbelievable statement by a Minister. He told the House that a Secretary of State would make a statement about an...
[Relevant documents: The Second Report from the International Development Committee, Session 1998–99, on The Provisions of the Commonwealth Development Corporation Bill [Lords] (HC 212),...
Queen's recommendation having been signified
[Relevant document: The Second Report from the Procedure Committee, Session 1998—99, on Procedural Consequences of Devolution: Second Interim Report (HC 376).]
Motion made, and Question put,
Motion made, and Question proposed, That this House do now adjourn.— [Mr. Clelland.]
Debates in the House of Commons are an opportunity for MPs from all parties to scrutinise government legislation and raise important local, national or topical issues.
And sometimes to shout at each other.
