§ 31. Mr. LoveTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what policies are in place to ensure that young unemployed couples without children are actively seeking work while claiming Jobseeker's Allowance. [157940]
§ Ms JowellOn 19 March this year, we introduced joint claims for Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA). Both members of young unemployed couples without children have to be available for work and to seek work actively, and each has to agree a Jobseeker's Agreement detailing what steps they will take in looking for work. Each member of the couple is required to attend the Jobcentre every fortnight to discuss their job search. Full payment of JSA is conditional on both carrying out their full responsibilities. Both will be helped by advisers to secure work and will be referred to programmes and New Deal assistance as appropriate.