§ 35. Mr. Kenneth Clarkeasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what instructions she has given to ensure that no lone parent is worse off by claiming the child interim benefit.
§ Mr. MeacherBecause of the interaction between taxable and non-taxable, and means-tested and non-means-tested benefits, it is not possible to assess the effect of claiming child interim benefit in every individual case; but it would only be in relatively unusual circumstances that, over the year, a person could be worse off as a result of now claiming the interim benefit. Any lone parent in doubt about his or her position should consult the appropriate benefit paying authority. My Department has advised lone parents in receipt of supplementary benefit or family income supplement of the effects on those benefits of claiming child interim benefit.
§ 39. Mr. Penhaligonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if she is satisfied that the child interim benefit will assist those lone families most in need.
§ Mr. MeacherYes.