asked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what is the average length of time between the application for an attendance allowance being submitted by the applicant and the granting of the allowance;(2) what is the maximum delay between an application for an attendance allowance and the applicant being advised of the outcome.

A recent sample check indicated that the average time was 8 to 10 weeks. In an exceptional case, where there is difficulty in establishing the attendance needs, perhaps because these fluctuate, the time taken can be many months. The Attendance Allowance Board makes every effort to ensure that all claims are dealt with as speedily as possible, but if my hon. Friend has a particular case in mind and can send me details I shall be glad to look into it for him.