HC Deb 06 February 1970 vol 795 cc223-4W
Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked 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.

Mr. Ennals

Over 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.