§ 28. Mr. Boyd-Carpenterasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many representations he has now received urging him to defer the operation of the pensions and contributions provisions of the National Superannuation and Social Insurance Bill beyond April 1972; and what reply he has sent to these representations.
§ Mr. CrossmanFive organisations have made such representations. I have noted these, and in certain instances have asked for further particulars.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterIs it not becoming increasingly clear that to seek to introduce these highly complicated provisions less than two years from now would cause great confusion? Would not the right hon. Gentleman save everybody a great deal of trouble by accepting the inevitable now by announcing postponement?
§ Mr. CrossmanIn view of my answer to the right hon. Gentleman, he will realise that it would be uncivil of me, having asked the organisations for further information and having received 1014 some information from two of them and not from the others, to make up my mind before all have replied, giving me adequate information.