Written question asked by Peter Viggers (Conservative) on Wednesday, 27 November 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 9 December 2002. It was answered by Nicholas Brown (Labour) on Monday, 9 December 2002 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Dept for Work and Pensions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, if he will simplify the procedures for the payment of incapacity benefit to councillors in receipt of councillors' allowances. - Includes figure.

Answer: Mr. Viggers: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will simplify the procedures for the payment of Incapacity Benefit to councillors in receipt of councillors' allowances. [84622] Mr. Nicholas Brown: The Incapacity Benefit rules recognise councillors' particular obligations and all work carried out in connection with their elected office is disregarded in deciding entitlement. Any allowances paid are taken into account only if they exceed the permitted work rules limit of £67.50 in any week. In March 2002, new guidance on the treatment of councillors' allowances was issued to decision makers. This simplifies procedures by allowing the averaging and estimation of expenses, thereby reducing the need for a weekly calculation.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 84622; 396 c136W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Benefits rules Councillors Allowances Incapacity benefit Social security benefits
Contains statistics: Yes
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk