HC Deb 06 March 1991 vol 187 cc172-3W
Mr. Wigley

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many people, excluding asylum seekers, are granted less than 100 per cent. of the normal rate of income support payments since the change in social security legislation in April 1988; and if he will outline the reason for not granting the full rate of income support in such cases.

Miss Widdecombe

Income support urgent cases payments are available to certain people from abroad, including asylum seekers, and to people who have not received income which they are due and who would, in consequence, suffer hardship. The personal allowance for adults is reduced by 10 per cent. because recipients are not entitled to (or are entitled to less) income support under the normal rules. Allowances in respect of any children together with any premiums are paid in full. No information is available about the number of people receiving urgent cases payments.