§ 23. Mr. J. Patonasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance if he will make representations to the National Assistance Board to have the amount of weekly earnings permitted to those who, while of pension able age are not eligible for retirement pensions and are maintained by National Assistance, raised from 20s. to 40s.
§ Mr. TurtonNo, Sir. I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given on 16th November to a similar Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Barry (Mr. Gower).
§ Mr. PatonHaving studied those replies I can find no reference in them to the category of people mentioned in my Question. Is the hon. Gentleman not aware that every increase in earnings lessens dependence on public funds? In view of the shortage of manpower is it not in the national interest to encourage people to earn as much as they can? Will he look at this again?
§ Mr. TurtonYes, but National Assistance is meant to relieve distress, and if we put the disregards too high it will be failing in that immediate purpose.
§ Mr. PatonIs not the position exactly the same with regard to the old age pensioners allowed to earn up to 40s.? Why should there be this illogical and completely unwise differentiation, with N.A.B. beneficiaries limited to 20s.?
§ Mr. TurtonBecause one is depending on contributory rights and the other depending on the subsistence level and National Assistance.
§ Mr. DoddsIn view of the very unsatisfactory answers which have been given I give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment tonight.