§ Mr. David ShawTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what change there has been in social security spending since 1978–79; and what change is expected for the future.
§ Miss WiddecombeTotal expenditure on social security increased by 52 per cent. or £23 billion in real terms between 1978–79 and 1991–92. Between 1991–92 and 1994–95, expenditure is expected to grow by £6.4 billion at 1991–92 prices. Of the overall increase, 32 per cent. relates to expenditure on benefits for elderly people, 39 per cent. on benefits for long-term sick and disabled people, and 13 per cent. on benefits for lone parent families. The figures given above for past growth, and for the division on future growth between client groups correct those given in the DSS departmental report (Cm. 1914).