§ Mr. David AtkinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will make a statement on the criteria applied by his Department in dealing with applications from Barlow Clowes International investors for social security on hardship grounds.
§ Mr. Peter Lloyd[holding answer 16 January 1989]: Investments in Barlow Clowes International are treated in the same way as other investments for income support purposes. Where the current market value, less 10 per cent. if there are expenses of sale, together with any other capital exceeds £6,000, no benefit is payable. A crisis loan may be available where the investment cannot be realised immediately and there is serious risk to the health and safety of the applicant or his family.