HC Deb 15 November 1988 vol 140 cc613-4W
Mr. McGrady

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many people were in receipt of family credit since 11 April to 30 September in the social security offices in Downpatrick, Ballynahinch, Newcastle, Kilkeel, Newry and Banbridge; and what was the total financial payment during that period.

Mr. Needham

Family credit is administered centrally and information is not available in the precise form requested. However, it is estimated that the number of families getting family credit in each social security office area at 31 October 1988 was:

Number
Downpatrick 318
Ballynahinch 111
Newcastle 204
Kilkeel 128
Newry 833
Banbridge 266

The estimated total amount of family credit paid in Northern Ireland up to 31 October 1988 is £16.5 million. It is not possible to give a breakdown by individual office area or for the period requested.

Ms. Mowlam

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what is the estimated number of families with children who will be above the entitlement ceilings for 1989–90 family credit, but whose net resources defined as in "Low Income Families" are within(a) 140 per cent. and (b) 200 per cent. of their income support level.

Mr. Needham

[holding answer 10 November 1988]The information is not available.