HC Deb 29 January 1968 vol 757 cc863-4
16. Sir Knox Cunningham

asked the Minister of Social Security if she will introduce legislation to prevent those who, at their own choice, retire from highly-paid posts on pension at the age of 60 years, from drawing tax-free unemployment benefit from public funds before reaching the age at which they qualify for retirement pensions from the State.

Mrs. Hart

The National Insurance Advisory Committee has been examining the question of unemployment benefit and contribution credits for occupational pensioners. I expect to receive its report very soon.

Sir Knox Cunningham

Will the right hon. Lady say how much money from public funds is being spent in this way? In the present economic situation, can we afford it?

Mrs. Hart

I cannot give the hon. and learned Gentleman the figure that he asks for at this moment. I can give it to him later. I am very much concerned about this question and am looking forward to receiving the report, which, as I say, I expect to have very soon indeed.

Sir A. V. Harvey

Would the right hon. Lady bear in mind that I know of two men who have retired from industry and are drawing pensions of over £3,000 a year who will be receiving the dole? Is this not a crazy situation, when we have just heard that old people are short of a bag of coal? We ought not to allow this to continue.

Mrs. Hart

It is for just these reasons that my right hon. Friend who preceded me in my Ministry asked the National Insurance Advisory Committee to look into this problem. It has been looking at it and I am expecting its report. As soon as possible after I have received it, it will be published and one can consider what action is needed.

Mr. William Hamilton

Can my right hon. Friend say whether some of these people when over 65 will be able to get free prescriptions?

Mrs. Hart

They are not over 65. These are people who are prepared to register for employment, and they are mainly between 55 and 65.