Universal Credit: Lost Applications

Oral Answers to Questions — Work and Pensions – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 13 November 2017.

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Photo of Stephen Timms Stephen Timms Labour, East Ham 12:00, 13 November 2017

Whether he has investigated reports of online applications for universal credit being lost; and if he will make a statement.

Photo of Damian Hinds Damian Hinds The Minister of State, Department for Work and Pensions

We are rolling out universal credit full service in a very measured way. I am not aware of any recent cases of claims being lost, but if the right hon. Gentleman knows of such incidents, I of course very much welcome him bringing these to my attention.

Photo of Stephen Timms Stephen Timms Labour, East Ham

There are serious concerns about glitches with universal credit apparently arising because the IT does not yet work properly in some areas. The Child Poverty Action Group has reported instances of claims being made and then vanishing into the ether without trace. Will the Minister assure the House that glitches of that kind will be addressed and resolved, not simply denied?

Photo of Damian Hinds Damian Hinds The Minister of State, Department for Work and Pensions

The CPAG report to which the right hon. Gentleman refers says in its summary that many claims seem to have disappeared, but the text refers to a small number, and then goes on to mention just one case. That is not to say that I ignore this matter or belittle it in any way—of course, I take what he says very seriously. He has my absolute assurance that I will pay attention to any glitches.