HC Deb 23 November 1954 vol 533 cc1034-5
18. Miss Ward

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer on what basis the increases in pensions under the Pensions (Increase) Acts were calculated.

Mr. R. A. Butler

On the basis of relieving real hardship caused to those with small total incomes by severe falls in the value of money.

Miss Ward

Does this basis have the sort of relationship that the assessment of the purchasing power of money has in relation to old-age pensions and pensions drawn under the National Insurance Act? Is there no better basis than a generalisation, which does not seem helpful?

Mr. Butler

I think it was found helpful on the last occasion when increases were introduced.

20. Miss Ward

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how far the Pensions (Increase) Acts now in operation have restored to the 1946 value the purchasing power of the pensions affected.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I am afraid I cannot add to the reply which I gave to the hon. Lady on 16th November.

Miss Ward

Which made no sense at all, if my right hon. Friend will permit me to say so. Is he aware that in the opinion of a great many people treatment of the small income groups is far too "hitty and missy"? Does he not think that the Government should pay more attention to this matter? Will he bear in mind that I am hoping for some action to be taken when the Budget is introduced next year?

Mr. Butler

I will have a little exchange of information with my hon. Friend about the very sane and erudite answer which I gave her in the first instance, and then we shall be able to see whether hope springs eternal.