HC Deb 04 March 1968 vol 760 cc2-3
2. Mr. Costain

asked the Minister of Social Security what study she has made of the cost to public funds of reducing the age of male retirement from 65 years to 64 years; and if she will make a statement.

Mr. Pentland

The age of retirement is one of the matters we are considering in our studies for the future development of social insurance. Cost is only one of the factors to be taken into account. Estimates of various possible changes depend upon a range of assumptions about the effect on retirement patterns. and other variables.

Mr. Costain

Does the hon. Gentleman realise that that reply really tells us nothing? Does not he appreciate that the Government's policies have caused high unemployment? Would not a reduction of the insurance age be the most humane way of overcoming this high unemployment?

Mr. Pentland

No, Sir. As we have said many times, the whole question of pension ages is among the matters which have been considered in the course of the Government's study of the future of National Insurance.

Mr. Worsley

May I ask the hon. Gentleman whether, in this review, he is considering whether a certain number of people, as they approach retirement, should take a lower-paid job so that their retirement is postponed? Is that part of his consideration?

Mr. Pentland

All aspect of retirement and the pension ages are being taken into consideration.