People Must Know the Truth About the Direct Payment of Pensions and Benefits

12.06.42pm GMT Thu 8th Jan 2004

Gordon Liberal Democrat MP Malcolm Bruce has tabled a parliamentary motion with cross party support calling on the Government to make clear how housebound, disabled and older people who are not able to cope with the Government's three Direct Payment options will be able to claim their pensions and benefits after 2005.

Mr Bruce commented:

"Most people will prefer to receive their benefits and pensions directly into their bank account or into a post office card account. Many housebound, disabled and older people however will have difficulties opening an account, remembering a PIN and using a pinpad. The options provided by the Government for pension and benefits collection has led to widespread distress and anxiety among this very vulnerable group of people.

"They are not being told the whole truth by Government. A fourth option will be unveiled later this year which will very probably not involve any sort of account.

"The only conclusion to draw is that the Government is withholding this information and the fact that people can continue to use their order books until 2005 to make sure the majority of people choose the cheapest option - even if it is a wrong one for them.

"My Early Day Motion has gained support not only from Liberal Democrats colleagues, but from within Labour and the Conservative Party too. I believe people are entitled to know the full facts about this new system of pension and benefit payments. If the Government aren't going to do it, we will."