HC Deb 19 June 1967 vol 748 cc1112-3
40. Mr. Winnick

asked the Minister of Social Security what action will be taken to help retired people receiving supplementary benefits to pay for the proposed increase in electricity charges; and if she will make a statement.

Miss Herbison

Electricity prices are only one item in a whole range of commodities and services which are taken into account in the Government's continuous review of the position of people receiving supplementary benefit.

Mr. Winnick

Would my right hon. Friend not consider it only right and justified that pensioners in hardship should receive a supplementary benefit and at least receive the extra amount with which they will be faced in their electricity bills?

Miss Herbison

When giving considerasion to what should be the supplementary pension, we have to take into account not only an increase on one item but in the whole field of prices. Because of that, the Government reached the decision that it would be quite impossible from month to month to make changes in the supplementary pension for old people.