HC Deb 04 November 1947 vol 443 cc1524-5
41. Mr. Gallacher

asked the Minister of National Insurance whether he will take steps to prevent old age pensioners being employed for more than 12 hours per week for less than £1; and whether, until such steps can be taken, he will issue a regulation granting full pension to those who can give proof that their earnings are under £1 for more than 12 hours per week.

Mr. J. Griffiths

No, Sir. My Department has no authority to regulate rates of wages, and the second of the hon. Member's suggestions would be a direct encouragement of low wages.

Mr. Gallacher

Is it not the case that advantage is being taken of some of these old age pensioners, and could not something be done to put a stop to it?

Mr. Griffiths

It is because of the fact that advantage has been taken in the past that we have adopted those methods which are in operation.