§ 71. Major Sir Edward Cadoganasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the increased cost of living, he proposes to alter the rate of old age pensions or to effect any change to bring old age pensions into accord with the existing conditions?
§ Miss HorsbrughI would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the reply given to a Question on this subject asked by my hon. Friend the Member for West Leyton (Mr. Sorensen) on 11th September.
§ Sir E. CadoganIs it not a fact that this is the only social service which has not yet come up for review?
§ Miss HorsbrughAny person receiving an old age pension can apply for a supplementary pension if the amount is not sufficient.
§ Mr. TinkerIs the hon. Lady aware of the feeling of the old age pensioners that they are not getting a fair deal, and that they are asking for a flat-rate increase?
§ Miss HorsbrughThe Question deals with whether there should be a rise in the present old age pension. A supplementary pension is granted, and that would make up for any difference in the need of the aged person.
§ Mr. Evelyn WalkdenIs the hon. Lady aware that in far too many cases supplementary pensions are refused and not granted, and that that is what is troubling the old age pensioners?
§ Miss HorsbrughIf the hon. Member will bring to our notice cases where they are refused, I will go into them.