§ MR. LEVERTON HARRIS (Tower Hamlets, Stepney)I beg to ask the Prime Minister whether the estimate which he gave on the introduction of the Budget of the cost of the scheme of old-age pensions includes the provision of a pension to those who are earning a wage of over 10s. but under 15s. a week, and who, in order to entitle them to a pension, may be expected to reduce their wages to 10s a week.
§ THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER (Mr. LLOYD-GEORGE, Carnarvon Boroughs)No, Sir; nor is it intended to include persons who may artificially depress their income below the limit of disqualification.
§ MR. PIKE PEASE (Darlington)Will the Bill be introduced soon?
§ THE PRIME MINISTER AND FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY (Mr. ASQUITH,) Fifeshire, E.I think that it would be for the convenience of the House if the Bill were printed and circulated as soon as possible. But inasmuch as I made a full statement on the subject in my Budget speech, I should suggest, if it is the general wish of the House, that the Bill should be presented and circulated at the earliest possible moment. It will not require a preliminary Financial Resolution.
§ * MR. MYER (Lambeth, N.)May I ask whether the statement made by the right hon. Gentleman on the subject was a full statement of the provisions, or whether it was a statement of the full provisions?
§ MR. ASQUITHThe subtlety of my hon. friend's distinction is too great for me to follow. He will be able to judge whether I made a full statement, or whether the provisions of the Bill are fuller than my statement.