HC Deb 15 March 1951 vol 485 c1753
38. Miss Burton

asked the Minister of Labour if, in future discussions with the National Joint Advisory Council, he will recommend that all firms employing clerical labour should allow persons wishing to continue therein after reaching retirement age to do so, thereby releasing younger people for more strenuous work.

Mr. Bevan

The National Joint Advisory Council has already endorsed, in principle, the Government's policy of retaining in employment older persons, including clerical labour, able and willing to continue serve.

Miss Burton

In thanking my right hon. Friend for that answer, may I ask him if he is aware that a good many women have written to me from Coventry expressing regret that they have to give up their work at 60 years of age when they would like to stay on, and so help the country at this difficult time?

Mr. Bevan

I admit that there are a number of people in that position but, of course, there has not yet been time for the decision to work its way through from the national authorities to individual industries.

Mr. Harmar Nicholls

Would the right hon. Gentleman consult with the Minister of Pensions with a view to paying full pensions, instead of reducing the rates to those carrying out work?

Mr. Bevan

That is another question.