§ Mr. Johnasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what would be (i) the gross cost and (ii) the net cost of paying to all 16 and 17-year-olds not in employment or on training schemes an allowance (a) of £16.50 a week and (b) of £25 a week, assuming that child benefit ceased to be payable in respect of those still in full-time education.
§ Dr. Boyson[pursuant to his reply, 13 June 1984, c. 520]: The figures are as follows:
(i) Estimated gross cost £ million (ii) Estimated net cost £ million (a) at £16.50 a week 950 370 (b) at £25 a week 1,450 870 The net cost is based on the assumption that child benefit and all other social security benefits in respect of young people aged 16 and 17, except attendance allowance and mobility allowance, would cease to be payable.