HC Deb 04 March 1968 vol 760 cc7-8
6. Mr. Maddan

asked the Minister of Social Security what are the numbers of individuals of retirement age drawing supplementary benefit through the Ministry of Social Security office in Hove; and what proportion this constitutes of all individuals drawing supplementary benefit through this office.

Mr. Pentland

On 21st November, 1967, about 6,450; that is 78 per cent. of all recipients.

Mr. Maddan

All those pensioners will have to pay National Insurance contributions. If the Government accept the recent Report of the Advisory Committee, occupational pensioners will have to pay that contribution. Does the Minister agree that the niceties of the various classes of insurance are not understood by the public, and that to implement that part of the Report would constitute a considerable injustice in people's minds?

Mr. Pentland

We are awaiting Regulations on the point that the hon. Gentleman has made.