Housing benefit claimants can hope for a quicker service in the future, according to the man behind the changes, Croydon North MP Malcolm Wicks.
The Minister for Work and Pensions has introduced new measures, subject to Parliamentary approval, to ensure that there are more staff to handle claims and ease the burden on local authorities.
These are part of a greater effort to improve standards of service and simplify the Housing Benefit system Mr Wicks said.
Speaking at the National Conference of the Institute of Revenues, Ratings and Valuation, Mr Wicks said: "In the past local authorities staff have had to check all claims by staff not directly employed by the council. We intend to get rid of this outdated and inefficient system and this will allow all staff to concentrate on clearing claims quickly."
October 23, 2001 17:00
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article