HC Deb 15 May 1952 vol 500 cc1606-7
17. Captain Robert Ryder

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the review of the Pensions (Increase) Acts 1944, and 1947, in respect of pensions for retired civil servants and others has been completed; and if he will make a statement.

22. Mr. John E. Crowder

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he will be able to make a further statement about the proposed increases in the pensions of retired government and local government servants and teachers.

25. Mr. Anthony Marlowe

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he expects to announce his proposals for increasing pensions for retired civil servants to meet the rising cost of living.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

The review is proceeding, but I regret that I cannot yet add anything to my reply to the hon. Member for Leeds, Central (Mr. Porter) on 23rd April.

Captain Ryder

Does not my hon. Friend think that it has taken rather a long time, and could not he give an assurance that it will be speeded up?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

The matter is proceeding with the utmost possible speed. I have had discussions with representatives both of the T.U.C. and local authorities—who are also concerned—and I can assure my hon. and gallant Friend that we desire to bring this matter. to a conclusion as soon as possible.

Mr. Marlowe

Is my hon. Friend aware that, however much attention has been given to this matter, it has not been with anything like sufficient despatch? Is he aware that this is a matter of considerable urgency and that a large number of elderly people are suffering hardship at the moment? Is he aware that it is particularly important because many of them live in my constituency?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I fully appreciate the urgency of the matter with reference to all parts of the country.

Mr. Woodburn

Is the Minister aware that quite a number of such cases are being reported from retired teachers who are suffering hardship? Is he aware that the matter has become urgent for many of these retired people?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Yes, Sir. That is why we are pressing on with it.