HC Deb 07 February 1978 vol 943 cc535-6W
48. Mr. Hodgson

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many means-tested benefits his Department has abolished since 1974.

33. Mrs. Chalker

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether it is his policy to reduce dependence on means-tested benefits.

Mr. Orme

None, because of the essential protection such benefits give for the time being to poorer people. Our aim, however, is to reduce dependence on means-tested benefits, and measures we have introduced since 1974, such as the child benefit and new pensions schemes, will contribute increasingly to that end.