§ 6. Mr. Ridsdaleasked the Minister of Social Security if she will take steps to help those retirement pensioners above the supplementary benefit level against the effects of devaluation.
§ Mr. PentlandWe have clearly indicated how we propose to protect the most vulnerable against the effects of devaluation, and in relation to old people in our society, we shall be increasing supplementary benefits in the autumn.
§ Mr. RidsdaleBut despite what he says, does the hon. Gentleman realise that many elderly people, especially those over 70, have to go without their daily help because of the increase in the price of this service?
§ Mr. PentlandThe daily help is another matter, but we have made it perfectly clear, as has the Prime Minister, that the most vulnerable in our society—those on supplementary benefits—will be protected by an increase in the autumn.