HC Deb 23 May 1974 vol 874 cc255-6W
Mr. Neubert

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services when the amount of £2 per week was first fixed for part-time earnings to be disregarded in the calculation of supplementary benefit; what amount would represent the equivalent value in real terms at the most recent convenient date; and whether she will seek to increase the amount allowed to that or a higher level.

Mr. Robert C. Brown

The £2 earnings disregard was fixed in November 1966. A figure of £3–31 would represent the equivalent value at mid-March 1974. We have given priority to improving the scale rates of supplementary benefit. An improvement in the disregards will be considered along with other aspects of the supplementary benefits scheme as financial resources become available.