§ 90. Mr. W. THORNEasked the President of the Local Government Board whether his attention has been called to the inquest on the body of an old age pensioner, Edward Heath, aged eighty-five, held at the Southwark Coroner's Court on 10th June, 1916, and the comments of the coroner thereon; if he is aware that the widow stated in her evidence that it was quite impossible to obtain proper food on any sum near 5s. a week; and whether he will consider the advisability of taking steps to increase the amount now given to old age pensioners?
§ Mr. HAYES FISHERMy right hon. Friend's attention has been called to the case in question. He understands, however, that the deceased died from the effects of a fall, and that at the time of his death he was not in receipt of an old 316 age pension. The question of increasing the amount of old age pensions is one for the Treasury.
§ Mr. THORNEIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that many Members in this House are daily receiving the most pathetic letters from old age pensioners, men and women?
§ Mr. HAYES FISHERI have received some myself.
§ Mr. THORNEThen why do not the Government deal with the question?