HC Deb 23 November 1992 vol 214 c536W
Mr. David Porter

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will set out the basis for the setting of the benefit level for people with no dependents after one year in hospital at £10.85 per week; and if he will make a statement.

Miss Widdecombe

For recipients of most social security benefits who have no dependents and have been in hospital for more than one year, the amount paid is equivalent to 20 per cent. of the basic rate of retirement pension.

We consider this amount to be sufficent to meet the personal needs of long-stay hospital in-patients for minor items not provided by the hospital such as newspapers and confectionery.