To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many and what proportion of claims for income support took (a) fewer than five days, (b) between five and 10 days, (c) between 10 and 20 days, (d) between 20 and 30 days, (e) between 30 and 50 days, (f) between 50 and 100 days and (g) over 100 days to process in each of the last (i) 12 months and (ii) five years for which information is available. (266127)

The administration of Jobcentre Plus is a matter for the acting chief executive of Jobcentre Plus, Mel Groves. I have asked him to provide the right hon. Member with the information requested.

Letter from Mel Groves:

The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions has asked me to reply to your question asking how many and what proportion of claims for Income Support took (a) fewer than five days, (b) between five and 10 days, (c) between 10 and 20 days, (d) between 20 and 30 days, (e) between 30 and 50 days, (f) between 50 and 100 days and (g) over 100 days to process in each of the last (i) 12 months and (ii) five years for which information is available. This is something which falls within the responsibilities delegated to me as Acting Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus.

In terms of volumes and percentages our benefit processing system records the number of Income Support claims processed within 1-5 days, 6-13 days and 13+ days. The data provided below regarding the volumes is displayed cumulatively for the first two time band sets—up to 5 days and then up to 13 days. The 13+ day column then shows the remaining total of claims processed beyond this time period. The percentage figures are not cumulative and are subject to rounding.

This data has been available since 2006. I have provided you with the yearly total for 2006/07 and 2007/08. I have also provided you with the in-month data for the last 12 months. The available information is in the attached annex.