§ 48. Mr. Tinkerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he has considered the resolution sent to him by the Old Age Pensioners' Association asking him to make provision in the Budget Statement in April next for a substantial increase in the basic rate of old age pension; and if he is in a position now to make a reply.
§ Sir J. AndersonAn increase in the basic rate of old age pension would require legislation. I am not prepared to introduce legislation dealing with old age pensions, pending the introduction of the Government's scheme of National Insurance.
§ Mr. TinkerWould the Chancellor take this Question as an indication of the feeling among old age pensioners that they are not getting a square deal, and that the Government stand condemned on this question and will have to do something more substantial than they are doing?
§ Mr. ShinwellIf nothing is to be done in the Budget on this matter, may I ask the right hon. Gentleman when the Government intend to introduce their legislation on social insurance dealing with this matter?
§ Sir J. AndersonI certainly cannot say what is to be done in the Budget, though I should not have thought that this matter was proper for Budget consideration. As regards national insurance legislation, I know that every effort is being made to introduce the major Bill at the earliest possible date.
§ Mr. FosterIs not the Chancellor aware that that legislation will not affect in any way the present generation of old age pensioners, though it is they who complain?
§ Sir J. AndersonWhat I mean is that the whole question will then come under review.
§ Mr. Craven-EllisCould not consideration be given to the change in the value of money?
§ Sir J. AndersonThat raises a very wide question.