§ 4. Mr. Tom Smithasked the Minister of National Insurance whether he will now make a statement about the arrangements for payment of increased old age pensions next October.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsArrangements have been made for payment of old age pensions at the increased rates to begin on the first pension pay day in October, on the assumption that the National Insurance Bill becomes law this week. Increased rates of pensions contributions will become payable by insured persons and their employers at the same time. A statement giving details of the main changes proposed in the present pensions scheme has been prepared as a White Paper which will, I hope, be available in the Vote Office after six o'clock this evening. An explanatory leaflet for existing and prospective pensioners will be available in post offices at the end of this month. This will explain to existing pensioners the qualifications for the increased pension and the arrangements for issue, and will give guidance to those who will qualify in the near future. Further leaflets giving detailed information about the increased contributions will be available at post offices and employment exchanges. Special notices of the changes in contributions will be sent to voluntary contributors.
§ Mr. SmithMay we take it that the leaflet will be written in simple language so that the old people will be able to understand it?
§ Mr. GriffithsWe are preparing a special leaflet which will be of the greatest possible benefit to the old people.
§ Mr. MonslowWill my right hon. Friend indicate whether the supplemental allowance will be paid to the old people?
§ Mr. GriffithsI am sorry, Sir, but I could not hear my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. MonslowWill my right hon. Friend state whether the supplemental pension in excess of the proposed pension will be maintained in the interim period?
§ Mr. GriffithsYes, Sir.
§ Mr. George WallaceWill the White Paper include the revised Regulations?
§ Mr. GriffithsIt will contain full information of the full scheme.