§ 22. Dr. Ernest A. Daviesasked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity how many unemployed persons received earnings-related unemployment benefit during the last 12 months; and what has been the average size of the earnings-related supplement paid.
§ Mr. FernyhoughAt any time during 1968 an average of 101,582 persons was receiving earnings-related supplement to unemployment benefit. The average weekly amount of supplement paid was £3 6s. 7d.
§ Dr. DaviesIs my hon Friend aware that this benefit is of great help to people who are, for example, displaced by mergers and technological changes in industry? Will he continue to lend his support to the sharp action which is being taken by his hon. Friends to deal with that tiny minority who abuse the system? Further, will he continue to resist any pressure from the benches opposite to curtail this very necessary benefit?
§ Mr. FernyhoughI can give my hon. Friend a categoric assurance on the last part of his question. I think that the abuses are probably microscopic. In order to try to eliminate them we might have to impose hardship on people who did not deserve it. When the history of the last three or four years is written, I think that the part that the earnings-related supplement has played in keeping the peace, as it were, and helping through the technological revolution will be much more appreciated than it is now.
§ Mr. Arthur DavidsonCan the Minister say for what average period wage-related benefits have been paid?
§ Mr. FernyhoughI cannot give my hon. Friend that information without notice, but anyone is entitled to it for six months provided that he is continuously unemployed.