§ 2. Mr. Wingfield Digbyasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what would be the cost, in a full year, of increasing the age exemption from £325 to £400 for a single person and from £520 to £670 for a married couple, and age relief from £900 to £1,100.
§ The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Mr. James Callaghan)To increase the income limits for age exemption from the present figures of £360 for single persons and £575 for married couples to £400 and £670 respectively would cost about £15 million; and to increase the income limit for age relief from £900 to £1,100 would cost about £4 million.
§ Mr. DigbyAt a time when other old people are to receive, albeit after some delay, increased pensions, will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind the claims of these people, particularly in view of the increase in the cost of living?
§ Mr. CallaghanYes, Sir, certainly, but I should not like it to be thought that I was anticipating any decision for the Budget.