§ Mr. CorbynTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what consideration his Department is giving to the treatment of a male claimant of home responsibilities protection credits, for looking after and taking responsibility for his children while his partner is working, in a way which differs from what would apply if the roles were reversed; what plans he has to equalise the treatment; and if he will make a statement. [25789]
§ Mr. ArbuthnotHome responsibilities protection protects a person's basic retirement pension by reducing the number of years of contributions otherwise needed for a full pension. The provisions apply equally to both men and women. HRP is available to those with child-caring responsibilities provided that they are entitled to child benefit for a child under age 16. In cases where the caring roles are reversed, it is open to a woman to forgo her562W CHB entitlement so that her partner can claim it and thus have access to HRP.