§ Mr. Wrigglesworthasked the Secretary of State for Social Services when he proposes to raise the level of earnings-related supplements; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. OrmeThe range of earnings on which earnings-related supplements are calculated is governed by the lower and upper earnings limits for contribution liability in the tax year relevant to the claim. From 1st January 1978 the maximum supplement payable rose from £12.18 to £15.42, based on reckonable174W weekly earnings of £95 or more in the 1976–77 tax year. My right hon. Friend has no proposals for further increases in the rate of supplement.