HC Deb 24 April 1951 vol 487 c214
68. Commander Noble

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the hardship suffered by Service widows and widows and dependants of other Crown servants, especially those getting on in years, under the present high cost of living, he will consider some amendment of the Pensions (Increase) Act of 1947.

Mr. Gaitskell

As I stated in reply to a Question by the hon. and learned Member for Ilford, North (Mr. Hutchinson) on 30th January, it is only justifiable in the most exceptional circumstances to amend pensions fixed by reference to retiring salaries or to rank. I regret that I cannot see my way in the present situation to propose further amendment of the Pensions (Increase) Acts.

Commander Noble

As the right hon. Gentleman has heard of many instances today in Questions of cases of hardship amongst the fixed income groups, will he not consider some sort of inquiry?

Mr. Gaitskell

I really do not think that the time has come for that.

Miss Ward

Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether he is aware that the cost of living is rising to all those people on static incomes? Will he give an answer to that, please? Is he aware of it?

Mr. Gaitskell

I refer the hon. Lady to my Budget speech.