HC Deb 25 February 1999 vol 326 c434W
Mr. Lilley

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what assumption about the value in real terms of means-tested benefits in 2025 has been made in the forecast in paragraph 17, chapter 1, of Cmd 4179. [73016]

Angela Eagle

Our aim, over the long-term and as resources allow, is to increase the Minimum Income Guarantee in line with average earnings. The forecast in paragraph 17, chapter 1, of Cm 4179 assumes that the level of income-related benefits is increased in line with average earnings (assumed to be 1.5 per cent. per year above the growth in prices) from April 1999 onwards.