§ Mr. Ralph Howellasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what would be the net cost or saving to the Exchequer in 1980–81, after taking into account savings on means-tested housing rebates, if earnings-related supplement had been abolished and if national insurance, unemployment and sickness benefits were payable at a flat rate of £17 for single people and £34 for married couples, plus a non means-tested addition of £11 for householders, whether married or single.
§ Mrs. ChalkerI regret that the information on which an estimate could be based is not readily available and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.