§ Mr. CorbynTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what estimates have been made by his Department on the effects on asylum seekers' children of the loss of social security benefits to their parents. [41827]
§ Mr. Roger EvansWe have made no such estimate. The Government believe that it cannot be right to pay benefits to asylum seekers who apply for asylum after being admitted to this country as visitors unless there has been an upheaval in their home country. Those people who apply for asylum on entry to the United Kingdom will still have access to benefits while their asylum application is considered.
§ Mr. CorbynTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what representations he has received concerning the effects of removing social security benefits to asylum seekers. [41826]
§ Mr. EvansThe Government referred proposals affecting the benefit entitlement of asylum seekers and other persons from abroad to the Social Security Advisory Committee on 11 October. The committee has invited representations. I expect to receive its report and recommendations during December. I have also received a number of items of correspondence.