During a statement from the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, I took the opportunity to thank DWP staff for the hard work that they have been doing. My casework has shown that there has been improved performance, despite an increased workload and the difficult circumstances they are faced with. I asked the Secretary of State, Thérèse Coffey, whether the increased discretion afforded to staff when working with cases could be implemented in the future. Ms Coffey assured me this was something they were considering.  Watch my question and her response below:

Huw Merriman (Bexhill and Battle)

We rightly hail all our health workers for the amazing job they are doing, but it is good that we are hearing praise for DWP staff this afternoon. Down in Bexhill and Hastings, they have been absolutely amazing, as they have been across the country. When I asked my office what cases we had outstanding, the answer was zero. When I asked how the performance level rated, I was told, “Better than ever.” On that basis, will the Secretary of State look at whether we are using more discretion now that could also be used in future? Obviously, we have to keep a cost-control mindset and commonality of decision making, but it seems there are positive lessons that can be learned, and I thank my right hon. Friend and her team for everything they have done.

Dr Coffey

It is kind of my hon. Friend to thank DWP. I think it deserves, universally, credit. We are trying to learn from the streamlining we have done on the potential for permanent future changes, so that we see the enhanced processing we have successfully undertaken over the last few weeks.