Stephen Timms: To
ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, with reference to the
Government's commitment in its response to the Oakley Review, Cm 8904, to
implement an IT solution so that local authorities are given the information
they need to suspend housing benefit only in cases where it is appropriate to
do so, what progress has been made in implementing such a
solution; whether the planned implementation date of
Autumn 2014 was achieved; and if he will make a statement.
Esther McVey: Following Matthew Oakley’s report we have
implemented a number of improvements to communications to ensure that claimants
understand the sanctions process and can take the necessary action. An
investigation of housing benefit with local authorities showed that the IT
solution is working to specification and correct notifications are being sent.
As a safeguard we have also improved guidance to ensure that staff advise
all claimants, when sanctioned, to inform their local authority so that their
housing benefit is not inadvertently stopped. We will continue to monitor the
position in cooperation with local authorities.
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