§ 3. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance if he is aware that the high cost of living has placed large numbers of old-age pensioners below the poverty line; and what are his plans to relieve their position.
§ Mr. PeakeNo, Sir. Retirement pensions went up in April to rates higher in real value than ever before. If any pensioner is in need, he can, of course, apply to the National Assistance Board for supplementation.
§ Mr. HughesDoes not the Minister realise that this arises from new circumstances due to the increase in the cost of living, and that it ought not to be beyond the wit even of the present Government to make some attempt to relieve these people? Can the Minister do nothing about it?
§ Mr. PeakeSince the new rates of pensions and of National Assistance were recommended and put before the House in December last, the cost of living has risen by rather less than one per cent.