§ Mr. RuaneTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many(a) children and (b) adults were living in poverty in each of the last 20 years; and what his estimate is of the number of children who will be living in poverty in each of the next three years. [137734]
§ Mr. Bayley[holding answer 10 November 2000]: Poverty is a multi-faceted problem. Therefore we do not use a single definition of poverty but instead use a range of indicators to examine the problem. Information relating to the indicators can be found in the second Government "Opportunity for all" report on tackling poverty and social exclusion "One year on: making a difference" (Cm 4865). The report also describes and monitors the impact of policies we have already introduced, and sets out our plans for the future.