HC Deb 13 September 1939 vol 351 cc646-8
47. Mr. Stephen

asked the Prime Minister what steps are to be taken to increase old age pensions, in view of the national emergency and the fact that many thousands of pensioners are deprived of assistance from relatives who are now on active service?

48. Mr. E. Smith

asked the Prime Minister whether he can present a report on the investigation that was promised into the position of the old age and widow pensioners; is it intended to increase the pensions and, if so, from what date and by what amount?

The Prime Minister

As regards the first part of Question No. 48 I regret that the international situation last month and the subsequent outbreak of war made it impossible for the Government to complete the intended investigation. I am afraid that in this great emergency the question of any general increase in the rate of old age pensions must remain in abeyance for the time being. But I would point out that special machinery exists under which members of the Defence Forces may make allotments of pay to dependants and others, that in addition dependants' allowances are issuable from Service Votes under certain conditions, and that old age pensioners who can show that they are in need because they have suffered a substantial loss of other income owing to the war will be eligible for consideration under the national scheme for Prevention and Relief of Distress.

Mr. Stephen

Does the Prime Minister not realise the great hardship imposed upon old age pensioners and does he not consider the circumstances of the national emergency warrant a general increase to all old age pensioners now?

The Prime Minister

That is the same question again. I said that the Government have taken into consideration the possibility of hardship to old age pensioners and have tried to meet it by the various provisions I have made, and I think the House will see that in this present emergency a general increase in the flat rate of old age pensions must remain in abeyance.

Mr. E. Smith

Is the Prime Minister not aware that the absolute necessities of these people have already increased in price by Id., 2d. or 3d., and that in view of that accumulation the old age people are heartbroken; and will he therefore reconsider his decision?

Mr. Gallacher

Will the right hon. Gentleman allow the House to vote freely on this question?