§ 57. Mr. David Priceasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what changes he intends to make in social policy to protect the old, the disabled and the poor from the effects of the substantial rises in fuel prices announced by the Secretary of State for Energy on 16 January.
§ Mr. Patrick JenkinGas and electricity price increases from April will not bite seriously until next autumn. Social security benefits, including the supplementary benefit heating additions, will be up-rated in November. The Government are currently considering the issues posed by my hon. Friend's question, and it is hoped to make an announcement within the next month or so.