asked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what is the basic weekly rate of invalidity benefit payable to a married man whose wife does not work and who has two children aged 12 and 16 years;(2) what is the basic weekly rate of sickness benefit payable to a married man whose wife does not work and who has two children aged 12 and 16 years.

The standard flat-rate sickness benefit in these circumstances is £26·50 a week. In addition, an earnings- related supplement of up to £12·18 a week may be payable. An invalidity pensioner with the same family circumstances receives £36·90; and, depending on the age at which he became incapable of work, an invadility allowance of up to £3·20.