HC Deb 03 December 1985 vol 88 cc180-1W
21. Dr. Godman

asked the Paymaster General if he will make a statement on the progress of the community programme.

Mr. Alan Clark

159,000 jobs are currently provided and I am pleased with progress towards the target of 230,000 places by June 1986.

24. Mr. Thurnham

asked the Paymaster General what recent representations he has received about the work of the community programme; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Alan Clark

We have received a number of representations from hon. Members and the general public which have stressed the programme's value for long-term unemployed people and local communities, and suggested possible improvements.

46. Mr. Kirkwood

asked the Paymaster General whether he will consider reverting to the former conditions for qualification for entry to the community programme.

Mr. Alan Clark

I have no present plans to do so.

85. Mr. Patrick McNair-Wilson

asked the Paymaster General what information he has as to attempts by political parties to use the community programme for party advantage; and if he is satisfied that safeguards exist to prevent this from happening in the future.

Mr. Alan Clark

It is an essential condition of funding under the community programme that projects must not involve political activity, have political objectives, or provide for or encourage any action in support of a political party. Any breach can lead to termination of contract, and checks on compliance are undertaken as a part of normal monitoring arrangements.

Mr. Madden

asked the Paymaster General what representations he has received expressing concern over recent regulations requiring those applying for community programme posts to be in receipt of benefit payment; how many of these representations relate to women who wish to return to work after raising a family; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Alan Clark

There have been no changes in the priorities for entry to the community programme since October 1984.