§ Miss Richardsonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many people are currently in receipt of invalid care allowance; and what is the annual cost of this benefit, assuming 1978–79 benefit rates.
§ Mr. Alfred Morris5,842 people are currently receiving invalid care allowance. During the 1978–79 financial year, the benefit is expected to cost £3.5 million. When the new benefit rates are introduced next November, the annual cost will rise to £3.75 million.