§ 45. Mr. Tinkerasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the Mineworkers Federation have carried a resolution at their annual conference calling upon the Government to increase the old age pension to £1 week; and whether consideration will be given to this appeal when legislation for the next Session of Parliament is under review?
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Chamberlain)The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. In reply to the second part, I cannot add anything to what has already been said in reply to recent questions on this subject.
§ Mr. TinkerIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that all the replies were in the negative; and may I ask him, in view of the appeals that have been made from all over the country, to give consideration to this point when a review of legislation is taking place?
§ The Prime MinisterMy replies showed the cost of the various suggestions.
§ Mr. ShinwellBefore the Prime Minister comes to a definite conclusion on this matter, will he consider two things: first, the setting up of a committee of inquiry to ascertain how people in receipt of 10s. a week are living; and, secondly, what are the views of the local authorities—the local authorities who are being burdened by public assistance?
§ The Prime MinisterThe question I was asked had relation to a particular resolution passed by the Miners' Federation.
§ Mr. H. G. WilliamsHas the Prime Minister's attention been drawn to the fact that this proposal was in the Labour party's election programme in 1929, and was not carried out by them?
§ Mr. ThorneAre you aware that they were in a minority?