§ 27. Mr. Donald Williamsasked the Minister of Social Security how much the last increase in supplementary benefits cost in the first full year; and how much the previous increase cost.
§ Mr. PentlandThe increase in supplementary benefits in October, 1967, would have cost about £40 million in a full year taken by itself, but as there was a larger increase in National Insurance benefits at the same time, there was a net saving of £23 million. The wide-ranging improvements introduced in November, 1966, when the supplementary benefit scheme replaced National Assistance, are estimated to have cost in all about £80 million in the first full year, including the payments made to the large number of claimants attracted by the new scheme.
§ Mr. WilliamsWould not the Minister agree that, having pledged himself to help the poorest people in the community, these additional benefits have been lost through inflation?
§ Mr. PentlandNo, they have not been lost at all. I advise the hon. Member to read last Friday morning's debate, in which he will find an ample answer.