§ Mr. Paul Deanasked the Secretary of State for Social Security what is the total cost of national insurance sickness benefit, earnings related supplement to sickness 440W benefit and invalidity benefit, respectively, for the last year for which figures are available; and what are the estimates for these benefits in 1976–77.
§ Mr. MeacherThe amounts are as follows:
Great Britain £ million Year Sickness benefit Invalidity benefit Flat rate Earnings-related supplement 1974–75 261 84 320 1976–77 400* 120 475* * At present rates of benefit.
§ Mr. Paul Deanasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how much of the total cost of national insurance sickness benefit and earnings related supplement relates to sickness lasting up to one month, up to three months and up to six months, respectively, for the last year for which figures are available.
§ Mr. MeacherIn the year 1974–75 the estimated amounts were £135 million, £240 million and £285 million, respectively.