Social Security Benefits

HC Deb 09 February 1971 vol 811 cc109-10W

99. Mr. Marten

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services on what basis a fair comparison is made between social security benefits in Great Britain and foreign countries.

Mr. Dean

Any comparisons of the levels of social security benefits should take account of such factors as the scope of the schemes, wage levels, standards of living, taxation, health and welfare services, occupational pensions and fringe benefits.

Dame Joan Vickers

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many women, with dependants, have been refused social security benefits because they are deemed to be co-habiting.

Mr. Dean

I regret that the information asked for, which relates mainly to supplementary benefit, is not available.

Mr. Thomas Cox

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many claim forms exist in the Department of Health and Social Services for people claiming social security benefits.

Mr. Dean

There are seven types of form used for supplementary benefit claim purposes. As to contributory benefits there are 34 types of form for initial claims with 58 covering increases and changes in such benefits.