§ Mr. David AtkinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans he has to introduce a maximum period for claiming benefits in areas outside the area of residence; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BurtWe have no such plans. Every effort is made to ensure that benefit is paid only where the conditions of entitlement are satisfied. In particular, benefits for unemployed people are paid only to those who are available for, and actively seeking, work. Housing benefit is paid only to people who have a genuine rent liability on their home. The Government are not persuaded that it is desirable or practicable to time-limit benefit entitlement of people living outside their normal area of residence as the free movement of people is essential for the efficient operation of the labour market.