Q 23 So if the transfer needed to be more than £9.6 billion in this financial year, that would require fresh secondary legislation this year? I am not saying that will be the case, but asking what would happen if it were.
Mr Gauke: I think that is an assessment of what could be necessary this year, but for future years we would require further secondary legislation to provide such a top-up.
Q 24 What steps have the Government put in place to review this legislation in terms of reports or otherwise? Are there any triggers that will lead to its suspension?
Mr Gauke: There are no formal processes for reports or triggers for suspension. All legislation is of course kept under review. I remind the Committee of the purpose here. It is to emphasise and underline our commitment not to increase national insurance contribution rates in the course of this Parliament. That is what my party set out at the general election, and this legislation is to support that.