§ Mr. NellistTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security whether the reduction from 97 per cent. to 95 per cent. of grant for housing benefit and poll tax benefit is still to be implemented; what will be the savings to the Exchequer; and if he will make a statement.
§ Miss WiddecombeThe basic rate of direct subsidy for housing benefit and community charge benefit will be reduced from 97 per cent. to 95 per cent. from April 1991. Although this will result in a reduction in direct subsidy of some £86 million, the effect of this reduction was fully taken into account in drawing up the proposed local government financial settlements for 1991–92.