Job Release Scheme (Hansard, 28 April 1981)

§ 11. Mr. Trippier
asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he is satisfied with the allowances payable under the job release scheme.

§ Mr. Peter Morrison
Yes, Sir, particularly as they have recently been increased. For example, under the general scheme for men aged 64 and women aged 59, the rate for a married man with a dependent wife, whose net income from all sources does not exceed £11 a week, has been increased from £45.50 a week tax-free to £50.50 a week tax-free.

§ Mr. Trippier
I thank my hon. Friend for that reply. Is it likely that the scheme could be expanded next year?

§ Mr. Morrison
As my hon. Friend is aware, the scheme and the rates are under review on an annual basis. Both my right hon. Friend and myself have made clear in the past that as and when resources allow—but only as and when resources allow—we want to see a reduction in the age.

§ Mr. Stoddart
In the light of the disgraceful unemployment figures which have just been commented on by the Secretary of State, and which understate the position, is it not urgent that the age at which the job release scheme operates should be reduced to 60 for men and 55 for women? Will the Minister go further and reduce the retirement age for men to 60, on a voluntary basis?

§ Mr. Morrison
A moment ago the hon. Gentleman heard my reply to the supplementary question of my hon. Friend the Member for Rossendale (Mr. Trippier). The Government believe that as and when resources are available we should reduce the age, but only as and when resources are available, otherwise there would be public sector borrowing requirement implications and further inflationary implications.