§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is aware that official figures show that the average wage is now £24 16s. 6d., £1 16s. 7d. per week more than a year ago; and to what extent the payments to pensioners and those on social security benefits corresponded to the increase in the income of an average wage earner.
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§ Mr. EnnalsOver the period October, 1968 to October, 1969 average earnings increased by 8 per cent. In November, 1969 retirement pensions were increased by 11 per cent. and for supplementary benefits the increase amounted to 11½ per cent. taking the increases in October, 1968 and November, 1969 together.