§ 26. Mr. Ashleyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what specific steps he is taking to inform all those persons who are entitled to family income supplement about their rights; and what particular efforts he is making to encourage these people to take advantage of the supplement.
§ Sir K. JosephI am planning an intensive publicity campaign beginning in the spring in which I shall seek the co-operation of social workers and others active in this field.
§ Mr. AshleyIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the family income supplement is a pathetic substitute for a real policy on poverty? How is this publicity campaign different from the previous one, on means-tested benefits, which has failed to attract many people to claim the benefits?
§ Sir K. JosephWe are determined to do better in securing increased take-up than the previous Administration. I suggest that the hon. Gentleman waits until he sees our publicity campaign in the spring.