HC Deb 14 May 1918 vol 106 cc196-7
40. Mr. WING

asked the Prime Minister whether he has received resolutions from the National Conference on Old Age Pen- sions held on the 23rd February, 1918; and, if so, what the Government's intentions are in regard thereto?

The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Bonar Law)

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. His Majesty's Government do not feel able in present circumstances to introduce legislation amending the Old Age Pensions Act as proposed.

Mr. WING

Will the right hon. Gentleman or the Prime Minister receive a deputation from the important bodies who sent the resolution?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I think it would be really perfectly useless to receive such a deputation, because in present circumstances we could hold out no hope of amending the Act in the way desired.