HC Deb 31 October 1939 vol 352 cc1731-2
33. Mr. Davidson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the total number of old age pensioners in Glasgow receiving relief in money or kind, for the years ended 1st October, 1938, and 1939, respectively?

Mr. Colville

The nearest dates for which figures are available are 15th November, 1938, and 15th May, 1939. At those dates, the numbers of old age pensioners in Glasgow receiving relief in money or kind, including those in receipt of institutional relief, were 15,919 and 16,747 respectively.

Mr. Davidson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware, in regard to that increased figure, that since that last date the position of the old age pensioners has become very acute because of the increase in the cost of living and the taking away of their dependants to fight for their King and country; and, in view of those facts, will he draw the attention of the Prime Minister to the burdens that are placed upon Scottish local authorities?

34. Mr. Stephen

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the total number of persons in receipt of old age or widows' pensions in Glasgow and Scotland, respectively, and the number who are having their pensions supplemented by the public assistance committee of the local authority?

Mr. Colville

As the reply contains a number of figures I propose, with the hon. Member's permission, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the answer:

Old Age Pensioners. Total at 31st March, 1939. Receiving outdoor relief at 11 March, 1939.
Scotland 275,479 40,480†
Glasgow * 14,931‡
Widow Pensioners. Total at 31st December 1938. Receiving outdoor relief at 15th November, 1938.
Scotland 85,247 10,740†
Glasgow * 5,087‡
* Separate figures for Glasgow are not available as statistics are not kept on a geographical basis.
† Corresponding figures for 15th May, 1939 are: Old Age Pensioners, 15,306; Widow-Pensioners, 5,108.
‡ Most recent available figure.