§ Mr. Bryan Daviesasked the Secretary of State for Employment what consideration he has given to proposals for fortnightly payment of unemployment benefits; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BoothThe Government have considered the report on the pilot scheme for fortnightly payment and are in favour of the system. We have, however, decided that the pilot procedures need some refinement, particularly to minimise overpayments34W and opportunities for fraud and abuse, and the timing of extension throughout Great Britain will be decided after this. Meanwhile, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Social Services will be bringing forward regulations to allow the pilot scheme to continue.