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Veterans: Unemployment Benefits

Asked by Harriet CrossConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 15 June 2026UIN 8283

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what representations he has made to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions and other relevant bodies on having the War Pension Unemployability Supplement formally recognised as a qualifying benefit equivalent to income-replacement benefits.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones

The status of the War Pension Unemployability Supplement as a qualifying benefit for passporting purposes is set through regulations by the relevant departments. The Ministry of Defence does not have the authority to amend this status and has not made formal representations on its recognition as equivalent to income-replacement benefits.

We continue to work closely with partner departments to support veterans and will keep this issue under review in line with wider government policy.

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