HC Deb 07 February 1978 vol 943 cc543-5W
Mr. Banks

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether his inquiry into self-employed insurance contributions is now completed; and when he anticipates the findings will be published.

earning of a man, wife and child under 5 years.

Stockport, North, Official Report, 20th January 1976, column 432.

Mr. Orme

The information is as follows:

Mr. Orme

On the assumption that the hon. Member is referring to the study of the feasibility of a system of fully earnings-related contributions and pensions for the self-employed, I would refer him to my right hon. Friend's reply to the hon. Member for Rushcliffe (Mr. Clarke) on 4th August 1976—[Vol. 916, c. 852–3]—in which he explained why work on this object had been abandoned.

As the self-employed will not be covered by the new earnings-related pension provisions which come into force on 6th April 1978 the rates of their contributions are being reduced from that date.