HC Deb 04 December 1973 vol 865 c356W
Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what has been the aggregate cost of supplementary benefit payments made to those involved in industrial disputes at Messrs. Harland and Wolff Limited, and to their dependants, since 31st May 1972.

Mr. David Howell

Since 31st May 1972 supplementary benefit payments amounting to almost £53,800 have been made in respect of the dependants of those involved in trade disputes at Harland and Wolff Limited. This amount includes almost £11,200 paid after the resumption of normal working.

Payments after return to work are recoverable under Section 2 of the Social Security Act (Northern Ireland) 1971. Up to 27th November 1973 almost £10,800 had been recovered, leaving about £400 still to be recovered.