HC Deb 20 March 1989 vol 149 cc459-60W
Mr. Kirkwood

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security (1) if he will explain how the April 1989 income support rule is derived;

(2) what element is included in the income support rules for April 1989 for the average rate payment by an income support claimant.

Mr. Peter Lloyd

I refer the hon. Member to my right hon. Friend's statement to the House on 27 October 1988 at columns445–58.

Mr. Kirkwood

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what element is included in the income support rules for April 1989 for replacement clothing and food.

Mr. Peter Lloyd

The income support rates are intended to provide for normal day-to-day living expenses. There is no specific amount included for replacement clothing and food.

Mr. Kirkwood

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what element is included in the income support rules for April 1989 for the average water rate payment by an income support claimant.

Mr. Peter Lloyd

Water charges are not a separately identifiable element in the income support rates. Compensation for water charges was included as a once-and-for-all adjustment from April 1988.