To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security on what date his proposal to relax the availability for work rule for unemployed volunteers will be implemented; and if the concession concerning 48 hours will be extended to unemployed claimants who (a) provide a caring service, (b) have a part-time job or (c) attend a part-time training or education course under the 21-hour rule; and if he will make a statement.

We hope to introduce an amendment to regulations for implementation during the summer.Many unemployed people who provide a caring service are not required to be available for work at all. However, we have no plans to extend the proposed concession other than to those who are volunteers.