§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services why council travelling and subsistence expenses are classed as income for income support purposes; and if he has any plans to change this situation.
§ Mr. ScottAny payment to councillors solely to enable them to carry out their duties is disregarded. Payments to councillors for travelling and subsistence which are not made wholly, exclusively and necessarily in respect of expenses incurred in the course of their duties, represent a reward for their services and are therefore treated as earnings in income support. When added to any other earnings, they attract a weekly disregard of £5, or £15 in certain circumstances. There are no plans to change these arrangements.