To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security, pursuant to his answer of 27 April to the hon. Member for Plymouth, Sutton (Mr. Streeter), Official Report, column 641, what progress has been made in implementing the joint statement of intent negotiated between his Department and the fuel and water industries concerning procedures for direct payment of fuel and water bills from income support. [32847]

The joint statement of intent aims to facilitate proper use of the direct payment scheme for fuel and water charges. Copies have been sent to fuel and water companies, the fuel and water regulators, and to all Benefits Agency district offices. It is for the Benefits Agency and the utility companies at local level to follow the agreed procedures.