HUNDREDS of forgotten teenagers could face "immigrant" style interviews to obtain their National Insurance numbers after being wiped from the Contributions Agency computer.

The blunder was brought to light by the case of 16-year-old Rishton student Graeme Cook who discovered he did not exist on the Government agency's records, despite his parents receiving child benefit.

His father, Andrew Cook, has appealed for all East Lancashire youngsters to ensure they have the number, crucial when starting a job.

Mr Cook, of Elm Close, Rishton, said he became concerned when his son's National Insurance number card had not arrived three months after his 16th birthday in May.

Cards containing the number are usually issued automatically several months before the 16th birthday. Mr Cook, a consultant engineer, said: "For some reason my son did not get his National Insurance number.

"He is going on to A-levels, so I was not initially concerned. But I thought I had better check when all his mates received numbers.

"It seemed strange because we still get child benefit. But apparently, they are dealt with by completely separate computers.

"My wife contacted the benefits agency representative in Blackburn and as far as they were concerned he simply did not exist.

"She was told Graeme would have to undergo the type of interview usually given to immigrants."

The problem has caused Mr Cook to believe that hundreds of youngsters could be without their National Insurance cards.

He added: "Sadly, not all parents take an interest in their children. My worry is that youngsters might even miss out on National Insurance credits as a result of not having the number."

A spokeswoman for the Contributions Agency admitted that a "computer blip" in August last year was to blame for some records being wiped.

She was unable to put a figure on the number of people affected, but added: "If people have a problem or any concern they should approach their local contributions agency office where we will be glad to help.

"Graeme needs to go along with his passport, birth certificate and some other form of identification.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused. Unfortunately we have to ensure that people are exactly who they say they are."

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