asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the current delay that hon. Members may expect before receipt of replies to inquiries resulting from the recent prolonged industrial action at the Newcastle offices of his Department.

[pursuant to his reply, 17 June 1985, c. 49]: Inquiries by hon. Members which are referred to central pensions branch, Newcastle are normally answered within 10 days. However, during and in the aftermath of the recent industrial dispute some delays have inevitably occurred. If my hon. Friend has a particular case in mind and lets me have details I shall be pleased to have it investigated.