John Bercow
Main Page: John Bercow (Speaker - Buckingham)
Mr Speaker
Order. I point out to the Chair of the Select Committee that the question relates exclusively to Stretford and Urmston, from which Sheffield South East is a little distant. The hon. Gentleman is an experienced Member and I am sure that he will tailor his question accordingly.
Mr Betts
I am sure that the Minister will be aware that his proposals on council tax benefits potentially affect Stretford and Urmston and other constituencies up and down the country. The Minister is aware that Capita wrote to local authorities on 12 January, saying it had real concerns about its ability to deliver IT systems in time to meet the changes proposed for April next year. Is the Minister not aware that authorities could end up with a real risk of system failure, affecting tens of thousands of low-income families? Is not the real answer to delay these measures for at least 12 months?
Mr Speaker
Order. The hon. Gentleman has already asked a question. He cannot have forgotten the fact, because I certainly have not.
Neil Carmichael (Stroud) (Con)
18. What steps he has taken to encourage local authorities to promote business and economic growth.
Mr Speaker
Order. I am afraid demand has exceeded supply, as is often the case. We must now move on.