HC Deb 15 October 1990 vol 177 c727W
36. Sir Fergus Montgomery

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what representations he has received about the upper earnings limit for social security contributions.

38. Mr. Evennett

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what representations he has received about the upper earnings limit for social security contributions.

43. Mr. Oppenheim

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what representations he has received about the upper earnings limit for social security contributions.

Mrs. Gillian Shephard

We received representations from the Institute of Directors on this subject early this year.

40. Mr. Corbyn

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what was the value of child benefit in real terms and as a percentage of average earnings in 1980, 1985 and 1990, respectively.

42. Mr. Bradley

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what was the value of child benefit in real terms and as a percentage of average earnings in 1980, 1985 and 1990, respectively.

Mrs. Gillian Shephard

The information is as follows:

Date Weekly rate of child benefit (£) Equivalent value at April 1990 price1 (£) Rate as a percentage of average male gross earnings
November 1980 4.75 8.55 3.5
November 1985 7.00 9.13 3.5
April 1990 7.25 7.25 2.5
1 Based on the movement in the general index of retail prices between the date in the first column and April 1990.

Mrs. Wise

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will make a statement on his plans for child benefit in 1991.

50. Mr. Clay

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will make a statement on his plans for child benefit in 1991.

Mrs. Gillian Shephard

The Government's position on child benefit remains as set out in our last manifesto. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will continue therefore to review its level each year in accordance with existing law.