Subsidiary Occupation Rule

HC Deb 01 August 1966 vol 733 cc26-7

46. Mr. Buchanan-Smith

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance if she is satisfied with the workings of the subsidiary occupation rule; and if she will make a statement.

Miss Herbison

The working of this rule in individual cases is a matter for the independent adjudicating authorities, but I am re-examining the rule itself in the light of the changes in unemployment benefit introduced by the National Insurance Act, 1966.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

Is the right hon. Lady aware that difficulties sometimes arise in cases where people are working part-time on their own account, for example, on crofts or smallholdings, because their income is intermittent or uncertain? Will she bear such difficulties in mind in her review of the rule?

Miss Herbison

Certainly.