Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment she has made of the effect of the requirement for candidates for the kickstart scheme to be in receipt of universal credit on the take-up of that scheme; and if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of removing that requirement.

Our initial focus is on young people who are currently on Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment as they have most to gain from an opportunity like Kickstart. Work Coaches will work with young people to identify those most suitable for the Kickstart scheme and can match suitable young people to vacancies. We will consider expanding to other groups as we grow the volume of Kickstart roles available.