Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what estimate his Department has made of the backlog of cases within the Child Maintenance Service; and what steps he is taking to reduce the time taken to (a) process new applications and (b) resolve disputes.

The Child Maintenance Service (CMS) have no application or Mandatory Reconsideration (dispute) backlogs.

CMS is working on modernising service delivery with an aim of making services more cost efficient, effective, and timely. Both the applications and the Mandatory Reconsideration (dispute) process have been developed by improving customer communications, introducing digital options for making and progressing applications and disputes. Improved data sharing through enhanced collaboration with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and improvements to DWP systems to increase accuracy and speed of service.

Additionally, we are investing in improving training and guidance products and ensuring all of our services are resourced at stable levels that meet demand.

The CMS continues to monitor the effectiveness of these measures and continue to build on these improvements.

His Majesty's Courts and Tribunals Service have responsibility for appeals on CM decisions.