To ask Her Majesty's Government further to the Written Answer by Lord McKenzie of Luton on 12 November 2009 (WA 181), what further consideration they have given to reviewing the guidance about the Access to Work scheme for disabled councillors. [HL2467]

The department has completed its review of the guidance in relation to councillors' eligibility for support through the Access to Work scheme. We agree that the situation was unclear and have therefore amended the guidance. The revised guidance makes clear that where disabled councillors receive allowances over and above reimbursement of meal and travel costs, and they meet the other eligibility criteria, they will be treated as being in employment for Access to Work purposes and may be eligible for support through the scheme. They will not now have to satisfy the national minimum wage requirements.

The revised guidance applies immediately and has already been brought to the attention to advisers.

I thank the noble Baroness for having raised this matter.