§ Mr. McCrindleTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security for what period 16 and 17-year-olds estranged from their parents will be able to claim income support; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter LloydRegulations have yet to be made, but we intend that 16 and 17-year-olds who are estranged from their parents will be eligible to receive income support during the same period as the child benefit extension period—that is, until the end of the calendar year for 739W summer school leavers and for 12 weeks in the case of those leaving at Christmas or Easter. During that time the guarantee of an offer of a YTS place will be met. Once eligibility for income support on this basis runs out, the "severe hardship" provision will be available where necessary. Those not required to be available for work or training will continue to be eligible for income support at all times.