§ Mr. PicklesTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans he has to introduce a compulsory element of attendance within the Lone Parent New Deal; what exemptions there will be; and if he will list the criteria for those exemptions. [57404]
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§ Angela EagleParticipation in the New Deal for Lone Parents is voluntary. There is no requirement for lone parents either to attend a New Deal for Lone Parents interview or to look for work. From 26 October 1998, the New Deal for Lone Parents has been extended to all lone parents on Income Support, including those whose claim was established before April 1998.
The Government are committed to providing viable choices for lone parents who, in the past, were written off to a life on benefit and the New Deal for Lone Parents is a major step in achieving this objective. This approach is in tune with what lone parents want: the opportunity to work, and a better quality of life for their children.
From 2000, the Government plan to implement new legislation to make it a condition of receiving benefit that, when asked to do so, people take part in an interview to talk about their prospects of finding work. This requirement will initially be implemented in 12 pilot areas and will be introduced in ways that take account of individual circumstances.
§ Mr. PicklesTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many of those who have entered into the New Deal for lone parents are currently receiving housing benefit. [57405]
§ Angela EagleThe information requested is not readily available and can be obtained only at disproportionate cost.
§ Mr. PicklesTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many of those who have entered the New Deal for lone parents are still receiving income support. [57406]
§ Angela EagleThe Government are committed to helping lone parents overcome the barriers to work through the New Deal for Lone Parents programme, which is available to all lone parents on Income Support with school age children. The programme provides a tailor-made service with support and advice on training needs, jobsearch, better-off calculations and local childcare services.
Information on the number of lone parents who have participated in the programme and moved into employment but, because of the number of hours they work, are still in receipt of Income Support is not readily available and can be obtained only at disproportionate cost.