§ Mr. Robin CookTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will list the occasions on which benefits have been increased in any year since 1979 by more than the rise in prices.
§ Mr. Peter Lloyd[holding answer 22 March 1989]: In November 1979, November 1980 and November 1982, when the forecast method of uprating was used. benefits were increased by more than the actual rise in the retail prices index.
§ Mr. ClayTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will publish a table listing each change in social security benefits in 1988–89 and those planned for 1989–90 and the expenditure and savings resulting from each change.
§ Mr. Peter Lloyd[holding answer 22 March 1989]: I refer the hon. Member to my reply to the hon. Member for Southwark and Bermondsey (Mr. Hughes) on 17 March at columns 394–96. In addition, my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer announced to the House on 14 March at columns 307–08 that we propose to abolish the pensioners' earnings rule with effect from 1 October 1989. This will give more choice and flexibility for older people who want to carry on working. The estimated benefit cost will be about £190 million in 1989–90 and about £375 million in 1990–91. Additional revenue from income tax and national insurance contributions will reduce the net Exchequer cost which will be met from the reserve.