HC Deb 08 June 1976 vol 912 cc667-8W
27. Mr. John Hunt

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what specific steps are taken by his Department to ensure that those school leavers in receipt of supplementary benefit are making definite efforts to obtain work; and whether any time limit is set for the payment of such supplementary benefits.

Mr. Orme

School leavers who are capable of work are required by the Supplementary Benefits Commission to register for employment in the normal way and to sign a declaration at the unemployment benefit office each week that they are able and willing to take any suitable job. The responsibility for advising them about employment lies with the local education authority careers officer. Supplementary benefit is payable so long as the need exists and the qualifying conditions are satisfied.