HC Deb 25 November 1977 vol 939 cc937-8W
Mrs. Hayman

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services at what state of pregnancy supplementary benefit can be paid to an unsupported childless woman, without requiring her to register for work.

Mr. Orme

A pregnant woman claiming supplementary benefit is not required to register for employment if there are 11 or fewer weeks remaining before the expected date of confinement. This period may be extended where there is good reason for doing so.

Mrs. Hayman

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services, for the latest available period, how many childless pregnant unsupported women have received supplementary benefit; and what is the average length of time they spend on supplementary benefit before the birth of the child.

Mr. Orme

I regret this information is not available and there is no practicable way in which it could be obtained.

Forward to