§ Mr. PicklesTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what consultations he has had over the proposed income support regulations concerning unemployed people not actively seeking work; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ScottFollowing consultation with the social security advisory committee, we have today laid regulations which will remove entitlement to income support from most unemployed single people and childless couples who fail actively to seek work. Accompanying the regulations, as Cd 2099, are the social security advisory committee's report and my response. Pregnant women, the disabled and people responsible for the care of a child or young person will remain eligible for a reduced rate of income support if they would otherwise suffer hardship.