HC Deb 25 February 1942 vol 378 cc214-5
80. Mr. Stephen

asked the Minister of Health whether he will consider the introduction of legislation to increase the old age pension to 30s. a week flat rate and abolish the means test, in view of the rising cost of living and the difficulties of the old people resulting therefrom?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Miss Horsbrugh)

I would refer to the reply given to my hon. Friend the Member for West Leyton (Mr. Sorensen) on 20th January.

Mr. Stephen

Is the hon. Member not aware of the wide discontent among old age pensioners, and will not something be done to meet the situation?

Miss Horsbrugh

If my hon. Friend will look at the answer to which I have referred, he will see that the addition can be given by means of supplementary pensions, without increasing the basic pension.

Mr. Stephen

Is the hon. Member not aware that, in spite of the supplementation, there is very great hardship? Will not something be done to make the position better for the old people?

Miss Horsbrugh

If the hon. Gentleman will let me know of any cases of hardship, I will look into them; but the scheme is operated by supplementary pensions.

Mr. Buchanan

Is the Minister aware that in the case of a man living by himself the amount paid is 19s. 6d., and in the case of a married couple it is 30s.? Does she realise that, in view of the increase in the cost of coal, etc., a married couple cannot live on 30s. per week?

Miss Horsbrugh

The hon. Gentleman is referring to the supplementary pension, as well as to the basic pension. As he knows, the rent is taken into account.

Mr. Buchanan

Is the Minister aware that the 30s. is the limit in most cases, under the means test? Will she take into account the question of raising the basic payment by the Assistance Board; or, if not, will she take steps to understand it?

Miss Horsbrugh

The hon. Gentleman has explained his own case quite adequately. The 30s. can be exceeded, as he himself has said, where it is shown that there is need.

Mr. Buchanan

It cannot be exceeded as a basic amount. Will the Minister take steps to have the matter reconsidered, and not ask Members of Parliament to run about as message boys, even for her?