Written question asked by Andrew Love (Labour) on Thursday, 5 April 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 26 April 2001. It was answered by Baroness Jowell (Labour) on Thursday, 26 April 2001 on behalf of the Department for Education and Employment.

Dept for Education and Employment

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment, What policies are in place to ensure that young unemployed couples without children are actively seeking work whilst claiming Jobseekers' Allowance. (Failed OPQ)

Answer: Mr. Love: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what policies are in place to ensure that young unemployed couples without children are actively seeking work while claiming Jobseeker's Allowance. [157940] Ms Jowell: On 19 March this year, we introduced joint claims for Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA). Both members of young unemployed couples without children have to be available for work and to seek work actively, and each has to agree a Jobseeker's Agreement detailing what steps they will take in looking for work. Each member of the couple is required to attend the Jobcentre every fortnight to discuss their job search. Full payment of JSA is conditional on both carrying out their full responsibilities. Both will be helped by advisers to secure work and will be referred to programmes and New Deal assistance as appropriate.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 367 c357W; 157940
Session: 2000-01
Question not reached: Yes
Subjects: Benefits rules Jobseeker's allowance Eligibility Social security benefits Young people Unemployment benefits Unemployment
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk