§ 24. Mr. Squireasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he proposes to maintain the real value of child benefit.
§ 42. Mr. Baldryasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make a statement on the future of child benefit.
§ Mr. NewtonThe Green Paper "Reform of Social Security" (Cmnd. 9518) made it clear that there are no plans to change the basis or structure of child benefit. It will remain a universal benefit paid for children, payable primarily to mothers, not means tested and tax free. Its level will be determined by uprating, according to all the circumstances at the appropriate time, including in particular the pattern of family support as a whole and the needs of families on low incomes.
§ 45. Mr. Michael Forsythasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many families have been disallowed child benefit for children over the age of 16 years because they are educating them at home; and whether he has any plans to change this position.
§ Mr. MajorThe figures requested are not available although the numbers are thought to be small. Child benefit may be payable for a child over 16, when the child is not attending a recognised educational establishment, if the special educational arrangements have been authorised by the local authority. There are no plans to change these requirements.