HC Deb 24 July 1974 vol 877 c462W
30. Mr. Robin F. Cook

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will issue a circular to local authorities designed to ensure that the needs allowances for rent and rate rebates are not abated by the increase in national insurance benefits.

Mr. Kaufman

As my right hon. Friend announced on Monday, the needs allowances will be raised from the beginning of October 1974. Local authorities have been informed. We have ensured that the increase in benefits from 22nd July will not have the effect of reducing rebates for those already receiving them.