Q&A WRITTEN REPLIES

FUNERAL COSTS: The Government last night delayed moves to set a ceiling on funeral costs that can be met under the Social Fund, which were due to come into force this month. Junior Social Security minister Roger Evans said he was considering an advisory committee report. "On the basis of the recommendations in it, we propose to introduce a Social Fund funeral payments scheme which specifies necessary disbursements and covers their reasonable costs."

BUSINESS TODAY - Commons: Not sitting. Lords: Mental Health (Patients in the Community) Bill, Committee; Child Support and Income Support (Amendment) Regulations. The Lords rises for its Easter break tomorrow. Both Houses return on 18 April.