Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 31
31
Agency agreements between the Scottish Government and the DWP have been used during the process...
Conclusion
Agency agreements between the Scottish Government and the DWP have been used during the process of the devolution of welfare powers. An agency agreement is used when the DWP delivers benefits which have been devolved to the Scottish Government via legislation, but Social Security Scotland is not yet in a position to administer these benefits to claimants in Scotland. Examples of benefits that have been delivered through agency agreements include Carer’s Allowance, Attendance Allowance and Personal Independence Payment (PIP). The Cabinet Secretary described this system as a ‘pragmatic way to ensure the continuity of payments’77 for claimants in Scotland. She went on to say that the system allows people who claim these benefits to be ‘paid the right amount at the right time, which when we ask clients is consistently the most important thing for them as we move to devolution’.78 Giving the UK Government’s perspective on agency agreements the Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work said that the agreements are ‘in place to make sure, from the public’s perspective, there is no cliff edge’79 and that claimants continue to receive the benefit they are eligible for.
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
The UK Government recognises the Committee’s observation of the mutual respect between the UK and Scottish Governments and that both are working towards the safe and secure devolution of aspects of social security to the Scottish Government. It is positive to see DWP’s response to the pandemic highlighted in the report, reflecting on the fact that Universal Credit was able to stand up to the challenge faced during covid leading to increased number of claimants. The increase in work coaches by 1,152 in Scotland, and the increase in specialist disability employment advisors, helped to ensure access to reserved benefits was improved for claimants in Scotland. The tribute to DWP employees (referenced in Paragraphs 15, 23, 81 and 93), will be particularly appreciated by colleagues throughout the country. The UK Government also welcomes the acknowledgement of its agreement to provide services under agency arrangements while the Scottish Government builds its capacity to deliver its replacement benefits. The UK Government notes the Committee’s recommendations and responds to them below. Page and paragraph numbers from the report are used for reference.