Figures shown in new report

New figures from the government show the number of families receiving child benefit has plummeted since the introduction of means-testing.

A new report from the economic affairs division of the Cabinet Office called The Isle of Man in Numbers shows just how dramatic the drop in claimants is.

In 2014, there were around 9,700 families receiving family allowance – but after the government means-tested those claiming it in April that year, the number dropped to just 8,470.

The report says that relates to 14,315 children.

At the time, Social Care Minister Chris Robertshaw said the move would save government around £2.5 million a year.