§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is aware that, during the past two-and-a-half years, the salaries of the higher-paid civil servants, judges and chairmen of the nationalised boards have been increased by 62 per cent.; and whether he will publish in the OFFICIAL REPORT a detailed list showing to what extent the welfare benefits would have been increased if similar percentage increases at the same dates had been applied to the various State welfare benefits.
§ Mr. DeanMy information does not support the general statement in the first part of the Question. In any case, for the reason given in my reply to the hon. Member on 1st December, 1970, I do not think that the cost of producing such a hypothetical table would be justified.—[Vol. 807, c.319.]
§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is aware that since June, 1970, all social welfare benefits have fallen in purchasing value by an annual amount of 1s. 4d. in the £ sterling; and whether, in view of the new information as published on 27th January showing the hardship suffered by the sick, disabled and those on retirement pensions, he will, before the proposed April tax cuts are implemented, increase all welfare payments and benefits.
§ Mr. DeanI have nothing to add to my reply to the hon. Member on 19th January about the forthcoming review.—[Vol. 809, c249.]