Written question asked by Steve Webb (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 16 November 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 19 November 1998. It was answered by Baroness Primarolo (Labour) on Thursday, 19 November 1998 on behalf of the Treasury.

Treasury

Question: To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, where a couple have opted that the working families tax credit is to be paid to a male earner, how a female parent with care will ensure that payment is transferred to her following the breakdown of the relationship; and if he will estimate the length of time such a transfer will take.

Answer: Mr. Webb: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer where a couple have opted that the working families tax credit is to be paid to a male earner, how a female parent with care will ensure that payment is transferred to her following the breakdown of the relationship; and if he will estimate the length of time such a transfer will take. [60511] Dawn Primarolo: In the situation described, the remaining partner either would claim Working Families Tax Credit themselves or, if they were not working, they could claim Income Support of Job Seeker's Allowance. This will ensure that the support the remaining partner receives is appropriate to her personal circumstances, and the deserting partner's claim for WFTC is ended. How long this would take would depend on how quickly the remaining partner made the claim.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 319 c845W; 60511
Session: 1997-98
Subjects: Women Men Welfare tax credits Separation Working families tax credit