§ 21. Mr. Budgenasked the Secretary of State for Social Services to what extent the national insurance contributions to be paid by employees in 1977–78 are expected to be fully required in order to meet claims on the fund.
§ Mr. EnnalsI would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Edinburgh, Central (Mr. Cook) on 7th December.—[Vol. 922, c.156–8.]
§ 23. Mr. Boscawenasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received about the new national insurance contribution rates.
§ Mr. EnnalsI have received 18 letters about the new rates and levels of national insurance contributions which, subject to parliamentary approval, will take effect from 6th April 1977. The representations were mainly about the effect of the proposed changes on the self-employed. The draft order specifying the new rates and levels will be debated in the House later today.