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Written question asked by Siân Berry (Green Party) on Thursday, 9 July 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 13 July 2026. It was answered by Stephen Timms (Labour) on Monday, 20 July 2026 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Universal Credit: Employment

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the proposal to remove access to the Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity element of Universal Credit for under-22s on young people undergoing cancer treatment.

Answer

The Young People and Work Report has been commissioned by the UK Government to investigate the persistently high numbers of young people out of work, education and training (NEETs). On the 28th May 2026, Alan Milburn published his diagnostic report, outlining his discoveries on the drivers of the increase in the number of young people who are part of this group.

The Report is being taken forward in two distinct phases, the first, a discovery phase which will provide a diagnosis on the increase in the number of young people who are NEET. The second phase will be a solution phase, which will identify potential areas for reform, aimed at increasing opportunities for young people.

The final Report is intended to take a holistic view of the welfare, health, skills and employment system and identify areas for reform. The Author will provide a full and final report in September.

Any proposals to change access to the benefits system will be considered in light of the conclusions and recommendations of the Young People and Work Report.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
17609
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Cancer Employment Medical treatments Universal credit Young people
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk