Abstract of Statistics
The latest national statistics on The Abstract of Statistics for Benefits, National Insurance Contributions, and Indices of Prices and Earnings 2008 Edition were released on 8th July 2009 according to the arrangements approved by the UK Statistics Authority.
The Abstract of Statistics is an annual publication that aims to provide a reference source for users interested in the main aspects of Benefits, Contributions and Indices of Prices and earnings. The latest release updates the statistics previously released on 30th June 2008.
The key points from the latest release are:
- The net income after housing costs presented for a range of hypothetical families shows that for most family types, income increased in real terms between April 2008 and April 2007. The data takes into account the prevailing tax rates, tax allowances and tax credits each year.
- Most benefit rates show a small decline when expressed as a percentage of average earnings in April 2008.
To access the latest release in full click here
To access previous releases, click here
Current Consultation.
Thank you for all your responses to Information Directorates proposal to discontinue the 'Abstract of Statistics for Benefits, National Insurance Contributions and Indices of Prices and Earnings'. All responses will be taken into consideration over the coming weeks and a report on the results from the consultation will be published via the statistical pages on the DWP website.
For further information please see - Abstract_of_Statistics_Consultation.pdf 
For responses in writing/e-mail please use this Microsoft Word document - Response_Form_Abstract.doc
If you have any further questions please don't hesitate to contact us via email at: stats-consultation@dwp.gsi.gov.uk