§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security under what circumstances claimants who submit an appeal against the loss of benefit may have their Income Support reduced because they have submitted such an appeal; and if he will make a statement. [94797]
§ Angela EagleThere are no circumstances in which submitting an appeal leads directly to a reduction in Income Support.
However, where someone who is claiming benefit on grounds of incapacity for work fails the "all work test" and appeals this decision, then Income Support can be paid at a reduced rate until a final decision on the appeal is made. The reduction is equal to 20 per cent. of the appropriate personal allowance for a single person of their age. The reduction is made good in full if the appeal succeeds. Full benefit can be paid if the person concerned makes themselves available for work and claims Jobseeker's Allowance instead.