All 1 Debates between Lord Lilley and Lord Grayling

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Lord Lilley and Lord Grayling
Monday 25th June 2012

(12 years, 6 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Lord Grayling Portrait Chris Grayling
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Of course, the purpose of the Work programme is to provide specialist back-to-work support. Those moving off ESA have early access to the Work programme, and those still on it can volunteer for the programme at any time, if they are not mandated to it.

Lord Lilley Portrait Mr Peter Lilley (Hitchin and Harpenden) (Con)
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Given that there are now 400,000 more jobs in the economy, the bulk of which have been taken by people who, by and large, are not eligible for benefits, because they are workers from abroad, might not loss of entitlement to benefit—for good cause—spur some people to get jobs and thus result in more jobs going to British people?

Lord Grayling Portrait Chris Grayling
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I absolutely agree with my right hon. Friend. I have made it clear that I would like employers in this country to offer opportunities to local workers, but those workers need to be there—they need to be keen, energetic and wanting that work. I hope and expect that our Work programme providers will provide that energisation.