asked the Secretary of State for Social Services on what date the application for child benefit from Mrs. H. Moxon, 17 Tresco Road, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, was received at the child benefit unit; what action has been taken on it; when it is expected that payment will be made; and what are the reasons for any delay in dealing with this application.

Mrs. Moxon's claim to child benefit was made at Hemel Hempstead local office on 18th October 1977. Because her child is nearing school leaving age it was necessary for her to fill in an additional form and this had to be returned to her because it had not been properly completed. The claim was received at the child benefit centre on 31st October 1977. An award of benefit was made on 10th November, retrospective to April 1977, and the award notice and order book will be issued shortly. I am satisfied that there has been no delay in dealing with Mrs. Moxon's application.