Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, with reference to paragraph 4.146 of the Spring Budget 2023, HC1183, if he will publish the data which informed the policy decision to increase the Administrative Earnings Threshold to the equivalent of 18 hours at National Living Wage.

Data is already in the public domain about the In-Work Progression Randomised Control Trial (RCT), which found that more intensive support delivered by Jobcentre Work Coaches helped claimants to increase their earnings. See link Universal Credit: in-work progression randomised control trial - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).

It demonstrated the importance of the relationship between the claimant and their Work Coach, with more regular engagement more likely to result in positive steps being taken to progress.