§ Mr. Wareingasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if, in the light of the findings of the National Consumer Council report, "Hard Terms", he will review the supplementary benefit regulations as they affect the long-term unemployed; and if he will make a statement.
§ Dr. BoysonThe National Consumer Council report "Hard Terms" is mainly concerned with Northern Ireland and its findings are a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. I understand, however, that the hon. Member is asking the Government to consider extending the long-term rate of supplementary benefit to the long-term unemployed. As I have told the House on a number of occasions, we are aware of the arguments for doing this, and the cost would be £480 million for Great Britain, and on these grounds alone it would have to be ruled out.