asked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what is the estimated total amount to be paid out in the year 1976–77 assuming 100 per cent. take-up rate for child interim benefit;(2) what is the estimated saving on other State benefits as a result of child interim benefit in the year 1976–77.

The cost of child interim benefit payments, on the assumption that all who stand to gain from claiming it will do so, is expected to be about £20 million in 1976–77, after taking into account a saving of about £2 million on other benefits.