HC Deb 15 December 1969 vol 793 cc916-7
34. Mr. Scott-Hopkins

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will review the provisions relating to unemployment benefits for men over the age of 55 years.

Mr. Ennals

I understand that the hon. Member has in mind the permitted limit of earnings for claimants to unemployment benefit who have a subsidiary occupation. This is kept under review, but there are no plans for making a change in it in the near future.

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that it is difficult for these people of 55 and over to get re-employment, and that under the present regulations if they are able to obtain part-time work, even if the remuneration is only £1, their supplementary benefit is cut? Will he look into this question, since the situation is causing great hardship for certain categories?

Mr. Ennals

A man can earn up to 6s. 8d. a day—about £2 a week—which. I agree, is not very much, by a spare-time job without losing unemployment benefit. I cannot offer any hope that there will be an immediate increase in that level.

Sir B. Rhys Williams

Would it not be in the interests of the community that these people should work rather than be kept in idleness?

Mr. Ennais

That is true—and those who wish to be at work would not be claiming unemployment benefit. Of course that is so.