MHK brands handling of child benefit as 'negligence'

North Douglas MHK John Houghton has accused the Department of Social Care of ‘negligence’ over its handling of child benefit claims.

Yesterday he tabled a question of ‘urgent public importance’ after alleging that the department had disregarded a Tynwald motion.

Last month it was determined that it would promote the option for claimants to receive their pensions and benefits at a post office – instead of electronically -  on the new claim form.

Social Care Minister Howard Quayle disputed the motion had been ignored and said his officers believe they have acted as Tynwald wished.

However Mr Houghton says this hasn’t been done and is ‘nonsense’: