§ 49. Mr. BIRDasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the advance in the cost of food and coal, the Government will take steps forthwith to increase old age pensions from 5s. to 6s. weekly during the continuance of the War?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am very sorry to think that even the old age pensioners have to take their share in bearing 792 the burden thrown upon the country by the War, but I am afraid this proposal would be impracticable.
§ Mr. ALDENMay I ask my right hon. Friend whether in certain exceptional cases, recommended by the pension officers, he could then increase the amount?