§ David TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what state assistance is available to people without health impediments or caring responsibilities who only work between 17 and 19 hours a week. [173948]
§ Mr. PondAdults aged 25 or over who usually work 30 hours or more a week may be eligible for working tax credit. It can also be paid to people who work 16 hours or more a week who are aged 16 or over and responsible for at least one child, or are disabled. However people without children or a disability, working between 17 and 19 hours a week would only be eligible for working tax credit if they were aged 50 or over and were returning to work after at least 6 months on one or more of a range of out-of-work benefits.
Housing benefit and council tax benefit run-on is also available to help with the transition to work. This allows certain qualifying claimants of income support and jobseekers allowance to continue to receive housing benefit and council tax benefit for up to four weeks after starting work. In April 2004, a similar provision was announced for those in receipt of incapacity benefits.