Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, how many hours on average are worked each week by participants taking part in the Work Programme.

Work Programme participants do not undertake work unless they are on a work experience placement. Work experience will be over a short period, with restricted hours in recognition of the participant’s limited capability for work. To collate information on average hours worked whilst on a placement would exceed the disproportionate costs limit placed on parliamentary questions.