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<p /> <p>Currently receipt of Universal Credit provides automatic access to a range
of passported benefits, including free school meals, for all those who meet the relevant
qualifying criteria. We have been working closely with other Departments to consider
how they might continue to deliver these benefits to those getting Universal Credit
as it is rolled out. To ensure the benefits continue to be targeted at those who need
them most, we have agreed to the introduction of a system of earnings thresholds to
enable the continued delivery of passported benefits under Universal Credit.</p><p>
</p><p>We are now working with Departments to determine the right earnings thresholds
which will be introduced as claimant numbers expand from 2015/16. Decisions on the
provision of those benefits, including the eligibility and verification arrangements
to confirm entitlement, will remain the responsibility of the Departments that own
them. In the case of free school meals this will remain with the Department for Education.</p><p><strong>
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