Oral Answers to Questions

Graham P Jones Excerpts

Monday 13th June 2011 Commons Chamber

[Graham Jones (Hyndburn) (Lab)]

2. Whether his plans for universal credit will ensure that people are better off in work after payment of child care costs.

[The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Mr Iain Duncan Smith)]

We recognise the vital role that child care plays in supporting parents into work. As the hon. Gentleman is aware, we have set out a consultative process with some options for child care within universal credit, as I said we would. Alongside that, we have committed to spend all the money available in the current system for child care. It remains our intention that everyone moving into work will be better off when child care is included. People who transition into work will certainly be better off than under the current system.

[Graham Jones]

Will the Secretary of State ensure that parents who work more than 16 hours a week will continue to get child care support to allow them to continue in work?

[Mr Duncan Smith]

If the hon. Gentleman looks at our consultation, he will see that our plan is to spread the money to ensure that parents who choose to work for any number of hours—not just 16 hours, but across the board—can go into work and get the necessary support. I therefore think that the answer to the question is yes, and we are also keen to support parents who work fewer hours.