HC Deb 18 February 1957 vol 565 c22
40. Dr. Stross

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance whether he has noted the proposals for retirement pensions now under consideration in Western Germany; and what consideration he is giving to the practicability of a similar scheme in Britain.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to the hon. Member for Wallsend (Mr. McKay) on 11th February.

Dr. Stross

Does not the right hon. Gentleman consider that the flat rates of contributions and flat rates of payments are now very old-fashioned indeed, and should we not think again on new lines?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

That is quite a different question. The hon. Gentleman asked me about the German system, which although no doubt well designed and calculated for the German situation is certainly from our point of view a very complex and elaborate system.

Mr. Marquand

Could not the right hon. Gentleman tell us whether the Government are considering a scheme of this kind?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

If the right hon. Gentleman will put down such a Question, I will endeavour to answer it.