§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is aware that between June and November, 1970, the purchasing value of the social welfare benefits fell by 2.9 per cent. due to the rise in the cost of living; and when he expects to be able to give figures up to the end of December, 1970.
§ Mr. DeanThe figures for December, 1970, are now available. On the basis of the movement of prices from June to December, benefits would have had to be increased by 3.5 per cent. to restore their purchasing power.
§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is aware that the continuing rise in the cost of living has been accentuated in 1971 due to the rise in oil, petrol, gas, electricity, fares, rates, rents and food; and as this will still further adversely affect retirement pensioners and those on welfare benefits, whether he will, before the promised autumn review, grant a special increase in all benefits pending the review.
§ Mr. DeanThe forthcoming review will take full account of price increases. Until the review is completed, no change in benefit rates is contemplated.