HL Deb 08 April 1998 vol 588 c143WA
Earl Russell

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether it is their policy that a national insurance number should be issued to any applicant who is actively seeking work, whether employed or not; and, if so, how they propose to ensure that this policy is complied with. [HL1335]

Baroness Hollis of Heigham

Our policy is to accept applications for a national insurance number from people who are either actively seeking work or who have found employment. Staff in local offices who deal with such applications receive appropriate training and have ready access to written guidance.