HC Deb 19 March 1986 vol 94 c229W
Mr. Frank Field

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will list (a) the number of claimants of social security benefits and (b) the number of dependants in 1979 and at the latest available date; and if he will calculate the extent to which the increase in unemployment since 1979 correlates with the increase in the number of claimants and dependants.

Mr. Newton

I shall let the hon. Member have a reply as soon as possible.