Work and Pensions written question – answered at on 1 December 2011.
To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the average weekly loss of income would be for couples currently receiving income replacement benefits, with one member of working age and one eligible for pension credit, under proposals introduced by schedule 2, paragraph 64 of the Welfare Reform Bill.
The Government believe that all people of working age who can work should be expected to do so and that it is not right to continue the current position where pension credit can go to households which contain a person of working age without that person having to meet any work-related requirements. The universal credit approach provides financial support to such couples, whilst giving the working-age member of the couple access to support in finding work.
We have already acknowledged that it will be important not to undermine the stability and outcomes for existing pension credit customers, so the change will not apply to couples already in receipt of pension credit. As a result, there will be no loss for any couples who are already currently receiving income replacement benefits where one member is of working age and one is eligible for pension credit as a result of proposals introduced by schedule 2, paragraph 64 of the Welfare Reform Bill.
Yes1 person thinks so
No0 people think not
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