§ Earl Russellasked Her Majesty's Government:
Further to the reply of Lord Henley on compensation for those receiving benefits for the introduction of VAT on fuel (H.L. Deb., 20th July, cols. 599–600), whether, in drawing the line for compensation, they will also adjust the tapers for housing benefit and council tax benefit, in order to ensure that those who move from benefit to employment are not worse off as a consequence.
Viscount AstorDetails of measures to help the most vulnerable groups affected by VAT on fuel will be announced in the annual up-rating statement.