To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what estimate she has made of the proportion of people working in the gig economy that are in receipt of universal credit.

The term “gig economy” covers a wide range of roles and working practices and the information requested is not held.

The Department provides tailored support to our claimants who are in self-employment through our work coaches to help them to increase their productivity and earnings.

Universal Credit encourages all claimants with a work expectation to find and progress in work. To support those already in, or considering self-employment, we have extended the New Enterprise Allowance (NEA) scheme from April 2019 onwards. The NEA provides support and mentoring for claimants who are looking to start or develop their business.