§ Mr. Andrew MackinlayTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security, what factors underlie the expected expenditure on sickness and social security between 1996–97 and 2001–02 projected in the financial statement and Budget Report 1997–98; and if he will make a statement. [17651]
§ Mr. Waldegrave[holding answer 25 February 1997]: I have been asked to reply.
Two factors account for the expected increase in social security expenditure on the sick and disabled between 1996–97 and 1990–00. First, a large increase in the number of sick and disabled claimants. Secondly, an increase in the number receiving premiums over and above the basic benefit payment.
My reply to the hon. Member on 24 February, Official Report, column 19, about growth in cyclical social security expenditure, highlighted that projections beyond 1999–00 are based on simple broad assumptions. Consequently, a detailed breakdown of expenditure trends is not meaningful, which is why projections of benefit expenditure beyond 1999–00 are rounded to the nearest £1 billion.