§ 69. Mr. Gallacherasked the Minister without Portfolio if he has considered the telegrams from the old age pensioners of the Fife area, copies of which were sent to him by the hon. Member for West Fife; and will he accede to their demand that the old age pensioners' charter be included in the scheme of social insurance.
§ The Minister without Portfolio (Sir William Jowitt)I have considered the representations referred to, but am unable to add to what was said on behalf of the Government in the course of last week's Debate.
§ Mr. GallacherIn view of the consideration which these old age pensioners deserve, arising out of their long service to the country, will the Minister agree to receive a deputation of old age pensioners, accompanied by a number of Members of Parliament, to discuss this matter?
§ Sir W. JowittI have received large numbers of deputations on this topic, and, though I am willing to listen to any hon. Members of this House, I do not think any useful purpose would be served by any further deputations.
§ Mr. TinkerMay I ask the Minister whether, since this supplementary rate of 35s. for a man and wife, and £1 for a single man, is not sufficient, he will consider adding something to it, pending the proposals of the White Paper?
§ Sir W. JowittThis matter was fully debated in a recent Debate, and I cannot add to the statement made then.