§ Mr. BattleTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what would be the reduction in spending on family credit in 1989–90 if child benefit was increased in line with inflation.
§ Mrs. Gillian ShephardEstimates based on the current caseload are that family credit spending in 1989–90 will be £16 million more than if child benefit had been increased in April 1989 in line with inflation.