asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if she will endeavour to simplify present methods of applying for supplementary benefits in order to expedite payments in those urgent cases where the application is occasioned by accident or sudden illness.

Claim forms have a space for the claimant to indicate if his need is urgent, or he can call personally at the local office or telephone for advice. If he cannot himself contact the local office to inform it of urgent need occasioned by accident or serious illness, a relative or friend can do so on his behalf and a visit by the local officer will then be arranged. We are concerned to ensure that present arrangements are working effectively. If my hon. Friend has in mind a particular case of difficulty I shall be glad to look into it if he will let me have the details.