Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what plans she has to allow people in receipt of Aspen cards under Section 4 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 to be able to obtain cash with those cards so that they can self-isolate when required during the covid-19 outbreak.

For asylum seekers supported under Section 4 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 and who are accommodated in full board accommodation (such as hotels) a small weekly cash allowance is provided to allow for the purchase of essential items.

For those supported under Section 4 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 in Dispersed Accommodation they continue to have cash loaded onto their card which can be used on a chip and pin basis in stores across the UK. However, for those asylum seekers who are shielding or self-isolating our service providers have extended their wraparound services and will assist with the provision of food and other items where required.