I am aware that retired civil servants in my constituency are facing lengthy delays and unnecessary complications in accessing their pensions. I had the opportunity to raise one case in particular today in Westminster.
Since Capita was awarded the contract to administer the civil service pension scheme, the number of complaints skyrocketed. Despite assurances given to Ministers, Capita was unready to manage the scheme, and the promised use of technology to increase efficiencies has not been forthcoming. Since ministerial intervention, cases are being resolved, and the service is improving. However, the backlog of issues is not yet cleared, and retirees are still awaiting responses to their concerns.
MPs are fortunate enough to be able to raise constituent cases directly with Ministers. This can be done privately in Parliament, by written communication, or, on rare occasions, on the floor of the house itself. I used the Minister's statement today to raise one particular case which came to my attention following a recent constituency surgery.
I welcome that the Minister has agreed to take this case away and personally investigate the matter. While I cannot raise every constituent case in this manner, I am ready to help all my constituents in their times of need.
