Skip to main content

Written question asked by Jonathan Reynolds (Labour) on Tuesday, 9 March 2021, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 11 March 2021. It was answered by Mims Davies (Conservative) on Wednesday, 17 March 2021 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.


Jobseeker's Allowance: Benefits Rules

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what discussions her Department has had with representatives of trade unions on the reintroduction of a full sanction and conditionality regime for claimants of jobseeker's allowance; and what the timeframe is for recommencing that regime.

Answer

The department re-introduced Claimant Commitments for New Style and Legacy claims from 3 August 2020. We are reintroducing Claimant Commitments for existing claims on a phased approach as capacity allows.

We expect claimants on work-related benefits to undertake certain activities in return for financial support through the benefit system. These requirements are agreed and tailored to help the claimant prepare for, look for and move into work.

Work Coaches will ensure that commitments made by claimants are reasonable. They will also allow claimants to continue to adhere to local and national public health advice in regards to Covid-19, whilst also doing what they can to engage with the labour market.

No consultation was required as there was no change in policy.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
165524
Session
2019-21
Subjects
Benefits rules Jobseeker's allowance Trade unions
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk