§ 17. Mr. ClaphamTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security when he expects to announce changes to the Jobseeker's Allowance to allow those who lose their job because of insolvency to claim the allowance. [88042]
§ Angela EagleWe are aware of the effect of the JSA rules in this area and are considering the matter in conjunction with the Department of Trade and Industry to see whether any changes can be made. There are, however, complex issues to be resolved. Meanwhile, there are existing safeguards to protect those most in need as payments can be made if hardship would otherwise result.
§ Ms Roseanna CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if school ancillary staff who were in term-time employment were entitled to claim Jobseeker's Allowance during the summer vacation of 1998; whether they are entitled to claim it during the summer vacation of 1999; if he will list the changes to352W Jobseeker's Allowance rules over the last 18 months which affect term-time employees; and if he will make a statement. [89288]
§ Angela EagleThere has been no change to the Jobseeker's Allowance Regulations in the past 18 months specifically relating to term-time employees.
However, an independent Social Security Commissioner has recently decided that people who are not entitled to Jobseeker's Allowance during term-time because of the number of hours they work, are also not entitled to benefit during holiday periods. In deciding claims for Jobseeker's Allowance, adjudication officers are legally bound to follow this interpretation of the law.
School ancillary staff may claim Jobseeker's Allowance during the 1999 summer vacation. This position has not changed since 1998. Whether such claims result in entitlement to benefit will depend upon the circumstances of each individual case. Where any doubt exists about entitlement to benefit, individual school ancillary staff should claim.