HC Deb 14 July 1975 vol 895 cc381-2W
Mr. Maxwell-Hyslop

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services at what number of hours' work per week, and what level of weekly earnings, a married woman is now compelled to pay national insurance contributions on her own account, in addition to those paid already by her husband.

Mr. O'Malley

All employed earners, whether men or women, married or single, are now liable to pay national insurance contributions when their earnings are £11 a week or more, regardless of the number of hours' work this represents. A married woman's liability for such contributions is unaffected by her husband's contributions, but whether she pays at the reduced rate of 2 per cent. or the standard rate of 5.5 per cent. of her earnings up to £69 a week depends on whether or not she has exercised her contribution option.