HC Deb 22 July 1963 vol 681 cc123-4W
45. Mr. Prentice

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance what reduction has occurred in the number of family allowances in payment as a result of the operation of Section 8 of the Family Allowances and National Insurance Act, 1961; and whether he will review the maximum figure of 40s., above which an apprentice's earnings disqualify him from being considered as a child for family allowance purposes, in view of the need to encourage apprenticeships.

Mrs. Thatcher

Since March, 1962, there has been a reduction of about 60,000 in the number of children in families drawing family allowances and including an apprentice within the meaning of the Family Allowances Act. My right hon. Friend has no proposals for further amending legislation in regard to the definition of an apprentice in the Act.