§ Mr. Kenneth Clarkeasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what percentage of average weekly earnings of male industrial workers the £2 earnings disregard represented when introduced in November 1966; what equivalent percentage the new £4 disregard represented when first announced in November 1974; and what equivalent percentage it is estimated the £4 disregard will represent when brought into effect in November 1975.
§ Mr. O'MalleyIn November 1966 the £2 disregard represented 9.9 per cent. of average weekly earnings of male industrial workers, based on October 1966 earnings. In November 1974 the proposed £4 disregard represented 7.9 per cent. of average weekly earnings, based on estimates of November 1974 earnings. No estimate has been made of the average weekly earnings in November 1975.