asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is expected to be the total amount of benefit paid out as child benefit increase in 1977–78; and what the administrative costs of this benefit are likely to be in 1976–77 and 1977–78.

£6½ million. This benefit will be paid from 4th April 1977, and the administrative cost in 1977–78 is expected to be in the region of £½ million. Preparatory work in 1976–77 will cost about £0·1 million.