§ Mr. Austin Mitchellasked the Paymaster General whether he will bring up to date the figures showing for the United Kingdom and certain other countries the annual increase in retail prices as given in the written reply to the hon. Member for Great Grimsby on 27 November 1979, Official Report, columns 578–80.
§ Mr. TrippierThe updated figures are given in the table. In making comparisons between countries it is important to note that there are differences in coverage and methods of construction of the price indices.
(b) are taking part-time courses of education and do not wish to be considered for work or other opportunities; or
(c) are pregnant and are not available to work.
§ Mr. Frank Fieldasked the Paymaster General whether his officers interviewing the long-term unemployed are able to calculate the financial gains and losses an individual might have in starting part-time work under the community programme.
§ Mr. TrippierManpower Services Commission staff interviewing the long-term unemployed are able in general terms to describe how clients may benefit but are unable to calculate in detail the financial gains and losses an individual might have starting part-time work under the community programme.
People requiring specific advice on this are referred to the benefit authorities.