HC Deb 15 November 1949 vol 469 cc1854-6
42. Mr. Collins

asked the Minister of National Insurance if he is aware that the present scale of assistance grants is insufficient to enable pensioners without other income to purchase their full entitlement of rationed foodstuffs; and if he will investigate the matter with a view to arranging for increased grants in cases of need.

43. Mr. Oliver

asked the Minister of National Insurance whether consideration is being given to amending the existing National Assistance Regulations respecting the assessment of need to meet the increasing difficulties of old age pensioners and others falling within the provisions of the regulations.

Mr. J. Griffiths

I cannot accept the statement that the present scales do not enable pensioners to buy their full share of rationed foodstuffs. These rates, which were a considerable improvement on those previously in operation, were generally welcomed when they were approved by this House last year. In addition, the Board have wide powers of discretion to meet the special circumstances of any individual case, which they exercise on an extensive scale. The position is, of course, kept under constant review by the National Assistance Board.

Mr. Collins

Is my right hon. Friend aware that, while I agree that the present scales are far in advance of anything previously applied, if one allows for rent and unrationed foodstuffs and such things that people must have, the present allowances are not nearly sufficient for an old couple living together? Will my right hon. Friend consider this matter again and, as was suggested previously, ask his officers to ascertain whether there is not some hardship involved at present?

Mr. Griffiths

I would call my hon. Friend's attention to what the Board say in their report. When they made a test in November, 1948, 25 per cent. of all the pensioners were receiving special allowances over and above the supplementary scale. From my experience, what very often causes most distress is the number—perhaps a large number—of old age pensioners who are not making application for the supplementary allowance to which they are entitled. I appeal to hon. Members in all parts of the House to encourage old age pensioners to apply for the supplementary allowance.

Mr. Oliver

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there has been a change—I do not know to what extent—since the regulations were made more than a year ago? Must my right hon. Friend await the decision of the Assistance Board before he himself can come to a conclusion?

Mr. Griffiths

I would remind my hon. Friend that the scales which were adopted in July, 1948, meant an increase of 20 per cent. for single persons and 14 per cent. for married persons. There were substantial improvements for most people concerned in the country.

Mr. Oliver

What were the increases since that date?

Mr. Griffiths

As I have said, there is power to make discretionary payments, and the matter is continually kept under review by the Board.

Mr. Chetwynd

Could my right hon. Friend give us any idea of the scope of discretionary payments which are being made, either in terms of the average per person or the lump sum as a whole?

Mr. Griffiths

The total amount given last year in discretionary payments was £2,900,000. If my hon. Friend would like further details and will put down a Question I will do my best to supply them.

Mr. Austin

In view of my right hon. Friend's influence in this matter, would he consider giving a lead to the National Assistance Board and review the regulations?

Mr. Griffiths

The initiative rests the other way.