§ Mr. DismoreTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions whether clients using Jobseeker Direct services when seeking job-broking advice and assistance by telephone will have access to Language Line if they do not speak English well; and if he will make a statement. [175034]
§ Jane KennedyThe administration of Jobcentre Plus is a matter for the Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus, David Anderson. He will write to the hon. Member.
1583WLetter from David Anderson to Andrew Dismore dated 25 May 2004:
The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your question, concerning clients of Jobseeker Direct having access to the telephone interpreter services provided by Language Line. This is something which falls within the responsibilities delegated tome as Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus.
All customers who call Jobseeker Direct or any of our contact centres, and do not speak English, have unrestricted access to the telephone interpreter services provided by Language Line. In addition, Welsh language callers have a specific number to dial and they currently receive a full Welsh language Jobseeker Direct service.
I hope this reply to your question is helpful.