§ Mr. Squireasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the average amount paid in supplementary benefit single payments to meet the cost of a newborn baby; and what is the maximum amount paid.
§ Mr. WhitneyThe 1983 annual statistical inquiry, which is the latest information available, indicates that the average amount paid by way of single payments for the maternity needs of a newborn or recently adopted child is around £60. There is no prescribed maximum amount which may be paid for maternity needs.