HC Deb 05 July 1928 vol 219 cc1543-4
3. Mr. BUCHANAN

asked the Minister of Pensions if he is aware that Mr. McCarthy, residing at Mathieson Street, Glasgow, had his need pension reduced from 10s. 6d. to 5s. 6d. weekly on receiving an old age pension of 10s., and that 1s. has now been added; that the total income this man now has is 16s. 6d. weekly to maintain him and pay rent; and if, in view of the needs of this man, he will reconsider his case?

Major TRYON

The need pension being based on the circumstances of the applicant, the adjustment of it in this case, following a permanent increase of income, is in accordance with the normal practice and was expressly contemplated by the Contributory Pensions Act of 1925. The pensioner in this case, who is drawing a larger amount in the aggregate than before, is not entitled under the present circumstances to a higher rate of pension under the Royal Warrants.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Will the Minister answer the question as to whether he thinks 16s. 6d. a week is a sufficient need pension to maintain a man?

Major TRYON

The hon. Member is under a misapprehension as to the liability we have in this matter. We endeavour to make a payment in substitution of the amount which would have been contributed by the son if he had survived.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Is it not the fact that investigations are made into the person's need for pension and that the Minister has the right to grant £1 per week, or more; and does he not consider that in this case there is need for a much larger sum than a total income of 16s. 6d. as a pension?

Major TRYON

An examination is made by the Ministry as to what might reasonably have been expected from the son had he survived.

Mr. BUCHANAN

A grant of 10s. 6d. was made in the first case on income, now it has been reduced to 6s. 6d. May I ask whether the grant is in regard to pension based on income, or on the question of need; and what is the actual amount which the man is receiving?

Major TRYON

The actual amount is in substitution for what the son might have been expected to give.

Mr. BUCHANAN

I beg to give notice that I shall raise this question on the Adjournment.