§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security when the level of occupational pension above which unemployment benefit is reduced was last increased; what would be the present limit if it had been increased in line with average earnings; and what is his policy regarding future increases in the limit.
§ Mr. BurtThe £35 per week limit was introduced in April 1981 and has remained at that level. If it had been increased in line with average earnings the present limit would be £84 per week. Increasing the limit would not represent the best use of resources for those who have a measure of support through an occupational or personal pension and we have no plans to do so.