Written question asked by Mark Hunter (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 6 October 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 9 October 2006. It was answered by James Plaskitt (Labour) on Tuesday, 10 October 2006 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Jobcentre Plus

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will raise the upper limit for funeral payments via Jobcentre Plus.

Answer: Funeral payments from the Social Fund cover the cost of certain necessary charges in full; these include fees levied by burial authorities and crematoria. An additional sum of up to £700 is allowed for other funeral expenses, which gives the person arranging the funeral the freedom to select items or services they consider appropriate.Although there are no plans to make changes to the amount allowed at this time the level of help is kept under review.

Secondary information