§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for the Social Services if she is aware that increases in social security benefits can result in disabled people and others losing entitlement to concessions such as free school meals for their children; and if she will take appropriate action.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisYes. The problem arises where a person who is marginally entitled to a means-tested benefit, such as free school meals, receives an increase in the rate of long-term national or industrial injuries insurance or war pension benefit, the amount of which exceeds that of the increase in the income limits for the means-tested benefit.
This problem is one of the many which can arise in connection with means-tested benefits. It will be borne in mind accordingly.