HC Deb 29 October 1985 vol 84 cc442-3W
Mr. Kirkwood

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will list all the main social security benefits which are not covered by a Government commitment to increase rates in line with inflation, together with an estimate of the cost of each 1 per cent. increase in their rates in 1986.

Mr. Newton

The following benefits are not covered by a commitment to increase rates in line with inflation:

  • Unemployment benefit.
  • Sickness benefit.
  • Maternity allowance.
  • Child benefit.
  • One parent benefit.
  • Family income supplement.
  • Mobility allowance.
  • Supplementary allowance (ie supplementary benefit for people under pension age).
  • Housing benefit.

The cost of a 1 per cent. increase in these benefits would be £170 million at November 1985 benefit rates.

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