HC Deb 12 March 1941 vol 369 cc1368-9

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Clause stand part of the Bill"

Mr. Mainwaring

I should like to ask the Minister how broad an interpretation will be given to the words at the end of Sub-section (1). Is it proposed to introduce words in substitution of due regard shall be had to the personal requirements of all persons whose resources are taken into account"? I have in mind a body of pensioners who, on account of age and other factors, are infirm, enfeebled or, indeed, as will be the case with large numbers of them, bedridden, and who, in consequence of their extreme disability and lack of personal resources, have either entered the homes of married sons or daughters or have received married sons or daughters into their own homes. In such cases, the married daughters or daughters-in-law will have undertaken the unpleasant task of looking after one, or it may be both, of the parents. I know of two cases where both parents are bedridden and their daughters-in-law have accepted sole responsibility for giving them personal attention. On top of that, at the present time, and because they are in the homes of their sons or daughters-in-law or their sons or daughters-in-law are in their homes the interpretation given is that their requirements are lessened by that fact. If those aged persons were not in those circumstances, they would require not merely the supplementary pension, as is provided for, but something more, in order to ensure such personal attention as they need. Is it intended, or will this matter be considered, that such aged persons, who really require not less but more, and whose daughters or daughters-in-law have undertaken this extremely unpleasant task, will not have their supplementary pension reduced, and that full regard will be paid to their situation?

Mr. Bevin

These words were made wide enough to enable us to draft the Regulations. I cannot give my hon. Friend any other answer, because the Regulations are drafted. He will see, if he looks at the words, that, instead of being rigid, they allow for the taking into account of resources which may vary.

Mr. Mainwaring

We have had words before. Words are very easily given. What I want to know is whether it is intended really on this occasion to give a general interpretation.

Mr. Bevin

Certainly. I have said so.

Question, "That the Clause stand part of the Bill," put, and agreed to.

Clause 8 ordered to stand part of the Bill.