§ Mr. Chris DaviesTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how participation in a local exchange and trading scheme affects an individual's benefit entitlement. [15431]
§ Mr. Roger EvansCredits obtained from participation in local exchange and trading schemes can be exchanged for goods and services in the same way as money. For benefit purposes, therefore, the value of credits is treated in exactly the same way as other earnings. In income support, family credit and disability working allowance, work undertaken within such schemes will also be taken into consideration when applying the 16 hours remunerative work rule.