HC Deb 30 October 1947 vol 443 cc1085-6
66. Mr. Perrins

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is prepared to allow the same concession for the purchase of tobacco and snuff at reduced prices, to persons over 65 years of age, who are in receipt of superannuation pensions, or allowances not in excess of State Insurance pensions, but who are not in receipt of national health or old age pensions, and cannot therefore produce pension books.

Mr. Glenvil Hall

No, Sir. As my right hon. Friend indicated in the Debates on the Finance Bill last summer, such an extension is not practicable.

Mr. Perrins

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there are many people, exempt classes we call them, who, because of the provisions of superannuation schemes, never contribute to National Health, but are just as deserving as any other pensioned classes?

Mr. Glenvil Hall

What my hon. Friend says is, of course, true, but any scheme which is put into operation must be workable, and the Post Office people at the counters must be able to identify an individual who is entitled to the relief.

Mr. Perrins

But surely these people could produce certificates of membership of superannuation schemes. Post Office workers, for example?