Written question asked by Harry Cohen (Labour) on Thursday, 29 June 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 6 July 2000. It was answered by Angela Eagle (Labour) on Thursday, 6 July 2000 on behalf of the Department of Social Security.

Dept of Social Security

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security, what plans he has to modify the benefit arrangements for claimants who have criminal convictions which will appear on criminal conviction certificates and other certificates issued under the Police Act 1997; what assessment he has made of the extent to which details displayed on certificates may result in claimants being unable to find suitable work easily; what plans he has to increase payments to claimants who are obliged to certificate on a regular basis; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Cohen: To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans he has to modify the benefit arrangements for claimants who have criminal convictions which will appear on criminal conviction certificates and other certificates issued under the Police Act 1997; what assessment he has made of the extent to which details displayed on certificates may result in claimants being unable to find suitable work easily; what plans he has to increase payments to claimants who are obliged to certificate on a regular basis; and if he will make a statement. [129138] Angela Eagle: We have no plans to modify the benefit arrangements for claimants who have criminal convictions which will appear on criminal conviction certificates and other certificates issued under the Police Act 1997. The Home Office will be working closely with relevant organisations to ensure that guidance is provided to encourage employers not to reject applicants with a criminal record without careful consideration of all the relevant factors.

Secondary information