HC Deb 21 July 1982 vol 28 c184W
Mr. Skinner

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many people received Christmas bonuses in 1979, 1980 and 1981.

Mr. Rossi

About 10,115,000 in 1979, 10,270,000 in 1980 and 10,500,000 in 1981.

Mr. Skinner

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will increase the pensioners' Christmas bonus to £35; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Rossi

No. Such an increase would cost an extra £250 million and given the need for continuing restraint in public expenditure no priority can be given this year to any increase in the level of bonus, at the expense of necessary improvements in weekly benefits.