Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask His Majesty's Government what they estimate to be the annual saving resulting from the draft Social Security (Persons Detained in Hospital) (Amendment) Regulations 2026; and when, and what proportion of, the savings will be transferred to the NHS.

From 6 April 2027, individuals convicted of serious offences who are detained in hospital will no longer be entitled to benefit payments. As a result they will lose benefit income, in many cases worth several hundred pounds a month for the duration of their detention. The measure is expected to save c.£5 million a year. Please find further information in the Budget 2026 (see page 59).

Individuals affected by this change will continue to receive the treatment, care and accommodation they require while detained in hospital. Healthcare providers and commissioners will remain responsible for determining any financial support provided to patients who are ineligible for benefits, taking account of individual needs and applicable local arrangements.