§ Mr. Warrenasked the Secretary of State for Social Services why it is not possible for people earning less than £12 a week to insure themselves for other than Class 3 contributions under the National Insurance Scheme; and if she will introduce an opportunity for people who wish to pay more to cover themselves against sickness, accident or unemployment to do so.
§ Mr. O'MalleyI assume that the hon. Member is referring to the lower earnings limit of £11 a week for liability for Class 1 contributions. For practical reasons82W there has to be a minimum level for the payment of earnings-related contributions by employed earners and their employers as a basis of entitlement to Class 1 benefits. The employer's involvement is necessary not only to meet a share of the cost but also to ensure that Class 1 benefits are available only to those for whom they are appropriate so as to provide protection against interruption of earnings.