asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will seek to relieve the tax burden on families who are liable for tax at the standard rate of 34 per cent. although they are also eligible for family income supplement.

We have done a great deal to alleviate their tax burden. Last year, we raised the tax threshold substantially, and this year we have proposed a lower rate band of tax at 25 per cent. The great majority of those who are eligible for family income supplement and also liable to tax will now pay income tax at no more than 25 per cent.