§ Mr. GEORGE THORNE (by Prirate Notice)asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer by what date he anticipates that it will be possible to pay Old Age Pensions at the new rates authorised under the recent Bill?
§ The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Chamberlain)I would refer the hon. Member to the statemend made by my right, hon. Friend the Leader of the House on this subject on the 19th instant that owing to administrative difficulties it will not be, possible to pay the increased pensions immediately. I anticipate, however, that it will be possible to make the payments about the middle of February. Any arrears which have accrued will, of course, be paid then. I hope that this notification will be observed by relatives and friends of old age pensioners, and that it will enable them, or encourage them, to make such arrangements as will tide the old age pensioners over the interval.