HC Deb 11 July 1972 vol 840 cc302-3W
Mr. Loveridge

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what constitutes an offer of suitable employment as this phrase is used by his Department; and if he is satisfied that the figure of 16,221 cases last year of those refusing offers of suitable employment who were disqualified from receiving credits of national insurance contributions and benefits, does not understate the real position, in the light of the way the words, suitable employment, are interpreted.

Mr. Dudley Smith

Suitable employment is normally interpreted as employment in an occupation appropriate to the registrant's qualifications, experience, knowledge and personal qualities. This interpretation is based on case law established by the independent statutory authorities appointed to determine unemployment benefit claims. I am satisfied that the arrangements for referring refusals of suitable employment to the statutory authorities are working sensibly.