HC Deb 26 November 1951 vol 494 cc855-6
16. Mr. William Shepherd

asked the Minister of National Insurance the total benefit payable to a workman, with a wife and two children, who is unable to work through injury sustained at his place of employment; and if he will state what benefit may be obtained from the National Assistance Board in such a case.

Mr. Peake

If the man's disability is sufficiently serious and lasts a long time he could, including family allowances, get £3 18s. 6d. a week for 26 weeks and thereafter £5 4s. 6d. a week. To this latter sum constant attendance allowance up to £1, or exceptionally up to £2, might be added. Whether anything would be payable by way of assistance would depend on the rent paid, the ages of the children and other circumstances.

Mr. Shepherd

Is my right hon. Friend aware that in my constituency there is a case of a man who, during 26 weeks, was paid only £3 17s. a week, which is quite inadequate for a man who has to keep a wife and two children?

Mr. Peake

If my hon. Friend has a particular case in mind, perhaps he will send me particulars of it.