The administration of Jobcentre Plus is a matter for the chief executive of Jobcentre Plus, Lesley Strathie. I have asked her to provide the hon. Member with the information requested.
Letter from Lesley Strathie, dated 30 January 2008:
The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your question asking how many of the Jobcentre Plus staff dismissed between October 2006 and September 2007 for unsatisfactory attendance receive Incapacity Benefit; and how much benefit they have received as at the most recent date for which figures are available. This is something which falls within the responsibilities delegated to me as Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus.
The Data Protection Act prevents us from checking whether any individual is in receipt of benefit except as required to administer that benefit. Further we are not permitted to disclose any details without their written permission.