§ 10. Sir W. Bromley-Davenportasked the Minister of Social Security whether she will make a statement on her policy with regard to universal or selective social benefits, in view of the report of the Institute of Economic Affairs, a copy of which has been sent to her.
§ Miss HerbisonThe various social security schemes for which I am responsible combine elements of both universality and selectivity. The Government will continue to bring forward measures arising from their review of social security as and when they are ready to do so. Due note is taken of any studies carried out in this field.
§ Sir W. Bromley-DavenportIs the right hon. Lady aware that this report states that more than half of the £6,500 million 21 which is spent on the social services goes to those who do not really require it and that half the people themselves think that they do not deserve the money? Is not any policy wrong which results in those who need the services least getting as much as those who need them most?
§ Miss HerbisonI have read the whole report and, as I said, due note is being taken of it. But there are many other factors which one must take into account before deciding on greater selectivity of benefits.