Dr. Tony WrightTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many vaccine-damaged children have received a payment of £10,000 in compensation. [45131]
§ Mr. Denham795 payments of £10,000 have been made since the scheme began. The amount increased to £20,000 for new claims on or after 16 August 1985, and 51 payments have been made at this rate. The current rate of £30,000 was introduced for new claims made on or after 15 April 1991, and so far 44 payments have been made at this rate. On 19 May 1998 it was announced that as soon as the necessary Parliamentary approval has been obtained the intention is to increase new awards to £40,000.
406WThe payment is not compensation but is designed to ease the present and future burdens of those suffering from vaccine damage, and their families.