To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what action has been undertaken by his Department as a result of the recommendations on the reform of the social fund by the Social Security Advisory Committee.
We have taken account of these recommendations in making recent operational improvements to the social fund. n particular; this year's increase in the budget to £346 million (52 per cent. higher than in April 1991); the introduction of the social fund computer system which will improve the consistency, speed and quality of decision making; revised training; and improved forms and letters.We will continue to take account of the findings of this and other reports, as well as our own close monitoring, as we consider any further improvements to the operation of the fund.