HC Deb 03 June 1974 vol 874 cc382-3W
Mr. John Garrett

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the shortest possible time in which family allowances could be introduced for the first child.

Mr. Robert C. Brown

To introduce allowances for first children in families which are at present receiving family allowances would take four months. To extend payment to the 3 million children in one-child families not included in the present scheme would take 21 months. These estimates assume the existence of the necessary legislation and ready availability of staff and the accommodation for them.