To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when he expects all recipients of the winter fuel payment in Northern Ireland to have received their payments for 2006-07. (104013)

Individuals in Northern Ireland, who are automatically entitled to a winter fuel payment or who submitted a claim before 24 September 2006 can expect to receive their payment before Christmas. Payments to those whose claims are received after 24 September 2006 and before the closing date of 30 March 2007 will receive their payment as soon as possible depending on when their claim was received.