HC Deb 13 May 1999 vol 331 cc198-9W
Mr. Gerrard

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what guidance has been issued to Benefits Agency Offices on the payment of those ancillary workers affected by the Social Security Commissioner's decision CIS/14661/1996 of December 1997 who had been advised not to sign on with the Employment Service for the period of their unpaid leave. [83903]

Angela Eagle

Since Social Security Commissioner's Decision CIS/14661/1996 was made on 21 August 1997 (received by the Department on 13 September 1997), guidance has been issued to Benefits Agency and Employment Services staff explaining that Jobseeker's Allowance cannot be paid under normal rules to those who did not claim at the relevant time.

It is, however, sometimes possible for ex-gratia payments to be made to people in these circumstances. Agency staff have been asked to keep a note of those ancillary workers who have inquired about such payments so that consideration can be given to their requests.