§ Mr. Duncan SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how much of the £195 million mentioned in her Department's press release of 29 October will be made available exclusively for the needs of disabled people within the welfare-to-work programme. [14680]
§ Mr. Denham[holding answer 6 November]The Government strongly believe that, for people of working age, work is the best form of welfare. We are committed to improving opportunities for sick and disabled people to work, up to £195 million has been set aside from the Windfall Tax to fund this important programme.
Many people with disabilities or long-term health problems want to work and the aim of the Welfare to Work programme is to allow them to do so. We wish to develop ways to give each sick and disabled person the advice, help and support they need to achieve their aspirations and to move towards financial independence.
The money set aside from the Windfall Tax will be used to actively explore a range of approaches, covering various illnesses and disabilities, to identify and pursue 453W the best ways to help people with disabilities and long-term health problems move into work or remain in work.