Working Tax Credit

HC Deb 03 November 2003 vol 412 cc468-9W

Mr. Llwyd

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many representations he has received since May on the 30 hour earnings rule applied to working tax credit; and if he will make a statement. [135374]

Dawn Primarolo

Entitlement to Working Tax Credit depends on a person being in "qualifying remunerative work". Claimants with responsibility for a child or qualifying young person, or who are disabled, must work for at least 16 hours a week to qualify for Working Tax Credit. Working Tax Credit extends in-work support to workers without children or a disability, provided they are aged at least 25 and work for 30 or more hours a week.

Since 1 May 2003. Treasury Ministers have received a small number of letters from hon. Members on the hours rules in Working Tax Credit.