§ Ms Bridget PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security when he expects the latest figures on households below average incomes to be published; and if he will make a statement. [55664]
§ Angela EagleThe latest figures in the Households Below Average Income series, covering the period from 1979 to 1996–97, were published on 15 October 1998, and copies have been placed in the Library.
The figures bear out our belief that there is a need to tackle poverty by helping people into work, and by getting help to the poorest pensioners. By introducing the New Deals, the Working Families Tax Credit and the Guaranteed Minimum Income for pensioners we are making real progress in addressing this situation.
The figures also show that the ever increasing Social Security Bill has had little impact on reducing inequality. This confirms our approach that welfare reform is required.
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