Barometer | 10 January 2013

Welfare state

The government was attacked for wanting to increase benefits by less than inflation. How have benefits changed in real terms since they were introduced? — Unemployment benefit began with the National Insurance Act 1911, when unemployed workers became eligible for payments of seven shillings a week for up to 15 weeks in the year. In 2013 prices seven shillings equates to £33, compared with £71 for Jobseeker’s Allowance. — The state pension began in 1909 when people over 70 with an income of less than £21 a year became eligible for five shillings a week. In 2013 prices this equates to £24, compared with the basic state pension of £107.45.

Child’s pay

David Cameron proposed tax relief for childcare costs. How much do parents pay for full-time childcare for a two-year-old?

% of average wage

Sweden	5
Finland, Denmark	8
Norway, Germany	9
Korea	11
US, Belgium	20
Canada	21
UK, Ireland, France	25
Spain	30
Switzerland	34

Source: OECD

Plaque build-up

English Heritage is to suspend plans for blue plaques commemorating famous people.