§ The Earl of Sandwichasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they agree with the recent assessment of the Refugee Council that the restoration of benefits to asylum-seekers would cost less than the present arrangements under the National Assistance Act 1948.
§ Baroness Hollis of HeighamWe are committed to a wide ranging review of the major components of the social security system: our aim is to reduce poverty and welfare dependency and to promote work incentives.
The Government have made clear that they will review all aspects of arrangements for asylum seekers. The review will consider the costs of all the various options for supporting asylum seekers.