HC Deb 31 January 1966 vol 723 cc671-2
31. Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance if, in view of recent evidence as to the extent of poverty among children, especially in big families, she will take action to increase family allowances.

The Minister of Pensions and National Insurance (Miss Margaret Herbison)

There is nothing I can usefully add to the reply which my hon. Friend received from the Prime Minister to his Question of 25th January.

Mr. Hamilton

Does not my right hon. Friend agree that the evidence as adduced by this investigation reveals a disgraceful state of affairs so far as big families are concerned? Will she give an assurance that the social security investigation on which the Government are engaged will not omit consideration of this problem so far as it relates to family allowances?

Miss Herbison

I can readily give that assurance. The evidence which we have had from this study backs up the knowledge of which we had been aware, that for some of the bigger families, particularly those of low wage earners, there is poverty in this country at the present time.

Mr. Hogg

Will the right hon. Lady confirm this if she can, that the Child Poverty Group estimates that 500,000 children in this country at present are living in poverty? Will she confirm that figure, or say what evidence she has as to whether it is correct or not?

Miss Herbison

It is not possible for me to confirm the figure, but we know that there are a large number of children, the children of low wage earners and the children of unemployed people who are hit by the wage stop, who are in real poverty at the present time.

32. Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance what is the value of the basic family allowance of 8s. expressed in terms of 1946 prices; and what is the similar comparison in the case of a basic retirement pension for a single person.

Miss Herbison

In terms of August, 1946, prices the 8s. family allowance in respect of the first qualifying child has a value of 3s. 11d. and the 80s. retirement pension for a single person has a value of 39s. 3d.

Mr. Hamilton

I do not think that I need comment on those statistics. It is self-evident from them that there is a great amount of leeway to be made up, and it will be made up only by a Labour Government, and the sooner the better.

Mr. Speaker

Order. We cannot have statements—hon. Members must ask questions.