Wednesday, 3 July 2013

Universal Credit – Parliamentary Written Answer

Katy Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will exempt families with an unemployed non-dependant aged under 25 years old from housing cost contributions following the introduction of universal credit. [
Steve Webb: It is a long-established principle that someone living in a benefit claimant's home should be expected to contribute towards the rent. This principle will be carried forward into universal credit, although the system will be simpler and will provide improved work incentives. We are introducing a single flat rate of housing cost contribution which will apply, irrespective of income, to non-dependants aged 21 and over.  While many non-dependants aged under the age of 21 are currently expected to make a contribution in housing benefits, under universal credit all will be exempt. For those aged 21 and over, a contribution will be expected only where the person is either in work or there is an expectation that they should be working/can return to work. A contribution will not be expected if the person is a carer, is responsible for a young child, or is in receipt of a specified disability benefit.

Katy Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will exempt people who are (a) in receipt of employment and support allowance and (b) awaiting a work capability assessment from housing cost contributions under universal credit.
Steve Webb: It is a long-established principle that someone living in a benefit claimant's home should be expected to contribute towards the rent. This principle will be carried forward into universal credit, although the system will be simpler and will provide improved work incentives.  Employment and support allowance does not of itself exempt a non-dependant from the contribution in housing benefit. This principle will be carried into universal credit.

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