§ Mr. Simon CoombsTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what assessment he has made of the benefits of providing child benefit to 16 to 18-year-olds. [32988]
§ Mr. Andrew MitchellChild benefit is paid in respect of some 72 per cent. of 16-year-olds, 59 per cent. of 17-year-olds and 38 per cent. of 18-year-olds who are continuing their education beyond the school leaving age.
114WIt is a significant contribution of £560 a year to their families. Without it, a family on average earnings would suffer a loss in income equivalent to a rise of 5p in the basic rate of income tax.