§ Mr. Blackburnasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how much was paid to the self-employed in accident and sickness benefits during the year 1977–78.
§ Mrs. ChalkerIn the year 1977–78, about £17 million was paid in sickness benefit to those whose relevant contribution record was wholly or mainly self-employed contributions. The self-employed also qualify for invalidity benefit but I regret that expenditure figures for the year in question are not readily available. Self-employed persons do not qualify for industrial injuries benefits.