§ 62. Mr. Kennedyasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he has 1376 considered the representations of the deputation of Members of the House in favour of earlier and increased old age pensions; and whether he can now say what action the Government are likely to take?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ColvilleAs I promised the deputation, I have carefully considered and discussed with my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer the points which were put to me by them. I am afraid that the Government cannot see their way to introduce legislation for earlier and increased pensions.
§ Mr. GallacherIn view of the fact that there is a conference on Saturday dealing with this question, will the Minister arrange for a representative of his Department to attend?
Mr. DavidsonIn these consultations did the Minister consider the opinion of local authorities who are bearing heavy burdens by having to give Poor Law assistance?
§ Lieut. Colonel ColvilleThat point was put among others by the deputation, and it was considered.