§ Mr. Chris Smithasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many young people in the London north-east Manpower Services Commission area have had their benefit cut as a result of coming off the youth training scheme prematurely; and how many in the same area have had their benefit cut because they have refused to take up a youth training scheme place when offered, or to attend an interview for a youth training scheme place when offered.
§ Dr. BoysonRecords kept since December 1983 by DHSS local offices situated within the area specified in the hon. Member's question show that there have been 11 reductions in supplementary benefit payable to young people who have prematurely terminated youth training scheme placements, and one reduction in benefit for refusing to take up a suitable place. Separate figures are not kept of those whose benefit is reduced because they refuse to attend an interview; any such case would be recorded simply as a "refusal".