§ 39. Sir B. Jannerasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance why new cards issued to people after the rise in contributions still give the amounts to be paid under the old rate; and if he will arrange for local offices issuing new cards to amend the rates on them before doing so.
§ The Minister of Pensions and National Insurance (Mr. Richard Wood)It would be uneconomic to reprint cards already printed before Parliament approved the new rates. Wherever a card is issued showing the old rates, a leaflet should accompany it showing the new ones.
If the hon. Member will tell me of any case where this has not happened, I will examine it.
§ Sir B. JannerIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the placing of a small 28 sticker on these cards would be sufficient to indicate the change? Is he aware that the present situation is causing a considerable amount of difficulty, particularly among cashiers in offices already overburdened with the difficulties created by P.A.Y.E.? Will he see that something is done to prevent this confusion, which afterwards leads to numerous inquiries and to very little result?
§ Mr. WoodMy information is that the issue of the leaflet has removed all doubt and, in fact, has been just as efficient in removing doubt as a stick-on stamp.
§ Mr. MitchisonWould the right hon. Gentleman, in this instance only, consider the intelligent use of a rubber stamp?