Debates between Andrew Western and Nick Timothy during the 2024 Parliament

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Andrew Western and Nick Timothy
Monday 11th November 2024

(1 month, 1 week ago)

Commons Chamber
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Andrew Western Portrait The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Andrew Western)
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My hon. Friend asks an important question and I will be delighted to follow up with him in writing.

Nick Timothy Portrait Nick Timothy (West Suffolk) (Con)
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According to the census, 72% of Somalis here live in social housing, compared with 16% of the population overall. In answer to my written question, the Department says it is “exploring the feasibility” of publishing benefits claimed by nationality, which is important for a proper debate on benefits policy and immigration policy. Can the Minister confirm that that work is going ahead and tell us when the data will be published?

Andrew Western Portrait Andrew Western
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The hon. Gentleman will be aware that nationality and country of origin are not factors in assessing benefit eligibility. We may look at that in future, but I would be delighted to follow up with him in writing about how we will take it forward.