§ 39 and 40. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) if he will widen the terms of reference of the independent committee which he intends to set up to review the economic and financial problems involved in providing for old age so as to enable that committee to review the anomaly which at present arises from the fact that while the majority of men die earlier, they are eligible to receive their pensions later in life than women;
(2) if he will amend the terms of reference of the independent committee which he intends to set up to review the economic and financial problems involved in providing for old age so as to enable it to consider and recommend the assessment of old age pensions on a sliding scale which will bear a direct relation to the cost-of-living at the time when the pension is actually paid to the pensioner.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerNo, Sir. The terms of reference, which I announced on Thursday, 2nd July, are widely drawn and do not preclude the Committee from considering these points if they so desire.
§ Mr. HughesDoes the Chancellor realise that this is not merely an actuarial matter but one which involves social problems such as those which the Committee will have to consider, and will he make it plain that these problems are within the terms of reference, because they press very hardly on men between the ages of 60 and 65?
§ Mr. ButlerYes, Sir; I am quite sure the Committee will pay attention to this Question and answer.
§ Mr. HughesI am much obliged.