To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the level of unemployment benefit/jobseeker’s allowance was as a percentage of average earnings in (a) 1976-77 and (b) 2006-07; what percentage he expects it to be in 2020-21; and if he will make a statement. (102268)

In 1976 unemployment benefit was the equivalent of 20 per cent. of the average gross weekly earnings for a single person. In 2006 jobseeker’s allowance (contributory-based) is the equivalent of 11 per cent. of the average gross weekly earnings for a single person. The percentage level for 2020-21 will depend on future movements in earnings levels, and the ratio of benefit payment.