HC Deb 31 January 1994 vol 236 c585W
Mr. Ingram

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what are the projected savings from the arrangements for the dependents of new incapacity benefit claimants under pensionable age during weeks 28 to 52 of any period of sickness.

Mr. Scott

It is estimated that there will be a net saving of £5 million in 1995–96 and £10 million in 1996–97.

Note: Estimate expressed in constant 1993–94 prices, rounded to nearest £5 million and is net of offsetting changes in expenditure on income-related benefits.

Mr. Ingram

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what are the projected savings from the introduction of higher rate incapacity benefit payable to claimaints from weeks 28 to 52 in any period of sickness.

Mr. Scott

It is estimated that paying the higher rate of short-term incapacity benefit between the 28th and 52nd weeks of incapacity will produce net savings of around £110 million in 1995–96, and around £150 million in 1996–97.

Notes:

(1) Estimates expressed in constant 1993–94 prices, rounded to the nearest £10 million, and net of offsetting changes in income related benefit expenditure.

(2) Estimates take account of the effect on incapacity benefit recipients of the planned changes in the qualifying conditions for the disability premium paid with the income-related benefits.