§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he has had with the First Secretary on measures to eliminate child poverty; and if he will make a statement. [129503]
§ Mr. HansonI have regular meetings with the First Secretary to discuss a range of issues including children's issues in Wales.
We are the first Government to have made a commitment to end child poverty in 20 years, and halve it within 10 years. The Government have announced measures this year which will assist child poverty, such as an increase in child benefit to £15.50 from April 2001, 40 per cent. more than in 1997, and an increase in the Sure Start maternity grant from £200 to £300.