§ Mr. WelshTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if she will estimate the cost of allowing students to claim(a) income support during the summer months and (b) housing benefit; what plans she has to introduce income support and housing benefit for students; and if she will make a statement. [18549]
§ Mr. Keith BradleyThe information required on which to base a reliable estimate of the cost is not available.
The primary source of financial support for full-time students is the student support system, which is specifically designed to meet their needs. Social Security is not. Certain students in prescribed vulnerable groups (including lone parents and students with disabilities) are entitled to benefits in recognition of the additional difficulties they may face in continuing with their studies. The majority of full-time students are not entitled to benefits and we have no plans to alter those arrangements.