Explanatory note

This instrument contains only provisions in consequence of an order under section 150 of the Social Security Administration Act 1992 (up-rating of benefits). Accordingly, by virtue of paragraph 3 of Schedule 7 to that Act, the Secretary of State has not referred these Regulations to the Social Security Advisory Committee.

Regulation 2 provides that where a question has arisen about the effect of the Social Security Benefits Up-rating Order 2002 (S.I.2002/668) (“the Up-rating Order”) on a benefit already in payment, the altered rates will not apply until that question is determined by the Secretary of State, an appeal tribunal or a Commissioner.

Regulation 3 applies the provisions of regulation 5 of the Social Security Benefit (Persons Abroad) Regulations 1975 so as to restrict the application of the increases specified in the Up-rating Order in cases where the beneficiary lives abroad.

Regulation 4 raises from £150 to £155 one of the earnings limits for child dependency increases payable with an invalid care allowance.

Regulation 5 revokes the Social Security Benefits Up-rating Regulations 2001 except for the increase in one of the earnings limits for child dependency payable with an invalid care allowance.

These Regulations do not impose any costs on business.