HC Deb 17 July 1916 vol 84 cc665-6
47. Mr. HOGGE

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that 160 old age pensioners have gone into the Edinburgh Workhouse as a result of the increase in the cost of living; that an old age pensioners' flag day is being held to buy and provide for them; and, in view of the indignation locally that the Government has not saved those old people from this degradation, whether he will at once introduce legislation to prevent any further degradation to those old people?

The PRIME MINISTER

I am informed that the number of old age pensioners admitted to the Edinburgh Poorhouse during the year ended 15th May last was 152, but that the increased cost of living was not the only cause of their seeking admission. The answer to the second part of the question is in the affirmative. I do not think this is at all an improper object for which to appeal to the generosity of the public. I am afraid that for reasons which have often been stated in this House I cannot undertake to adopt the suggestion contained in the last part of the question.

Mr. HOGGE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it costs the country 14s. per week to keep these people in the workhouse, whereas 2s. 6d. would keep them out?

The PRIME MINISTER

Yes, Sir. I am well aware of that.

Mr. W. THORNE

Is that the last word to be said upon this matter, or is it any good at all for trade organisations, or any other party, continuing the agitation which is, and has been, going on?

The PRIME MINISTER

I have already—with the Chancellor of the Exchequer— expressed the great sympathy that the Government feel for these people, and also the great difficulty there is in making any special provision for their case.

Mr. PRINGLE

Will the right hon. Gentleman give a day for discussion?

Mr. THORNE

Is it not possible to persuade the Treasury to grant £2,500,000, which would practically minimise the hardship from which these old age pensioners are suffering at the present time?

The PRIME MINISTER

It would cost a great deal more than that.

Mr. OUTHWAITE

Has the attention of the right hon. Gentleman been called to the fact of the gigantic profits declared by the shipping companies—[HON. MEMBEES: "Order!"]—and could he not further tax those profits to bear the cost? [HON. MEMBERS: "Order!"] Hon. Members on the other side are getting the dividends.