HC Deb 08 July 1985 vol 82 cc369-70W
Mr. Gordon Brown

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) if he will estimate how many persons will receive less in housing benefit, or have to pay more towards their rent and rates costs, as a result of the changes in non-dependent deductions to be implemented in November 1985; and how much money the changes involve;

(2) if he will show the weekly gross and net earnings levels at which eligibility for housing benefit will expire, assuming average amounts for rent and rates, following the proposals for the November 1985 uprating in respect of the following household types, assuming one wage-earner: (a) single person, (b) married couple, (c) married couple with one child, (d) married couple with two children, (e) married couple with three children and (f) married couple with an 18 year old in work or training, living at home; and if he will also provide information on the net income derived from these earnings levels taking account of income from child benefit and expenditure on housing costs, including water rates and average travel-to-work costs.

Mr. Newton

I shall let the hon. Member have replies as soon as possible.