To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many claimants for Jobseeker's Allowance in each quarter since October 1996 have had their claim rejected on the grounds of non-availability for work due to ill health or incapacity; and how many of those so refused were also deemed ineligible for incapacity benefit. [79716]

The information requested is not available.A decision, following application of the all work test, that a person is capable of work applies across the Social Security system where capacity for work is an issue.Claimants for Jobseeker's Allowance are required to be capable of, and available for, work. However, jobseekers may restrict their availability in any way if the restrictions are reasonable in the light of their physical or mental condition.