National Insurance Fund

HC Deb 15 April 1999 vol 329 c325W

19. Mr. Flynn

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has for the future of the Treasury supplement to the national insurance fund. [79463]

Mr. Milburn

In 1999–2000, we expect benefit expenditure from the National Insurance Fund broadly to match income, in which case the Fund will not need a substantial Treasury Grant. The maximum Treasury Grant which may be made available to the Fund in this financial year shall not exceed 2 per cent. of the estimated benefit expenditure from the Fund. For subsequent years, we will decide on the level of Treasury Grant in light of advice from the Government Actuary.