§ 27. Sir Sydney ChapmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what was the cost of all social security benefits paid out in 1978–79; what is the estimated outturn this financial year; and what is the relationship between these figures after allowing for inflation. [8818]
§ Mr. LilleySpending this year is estimated to be £87.1 billion compared to £49.2 billion in 1978–79, in today's prices. This represents average real growth of 3 per cent. a year over the period.