§ 36. Mr. Jesselasked the Minister for the Civil Service whether he has yet laid before Parliament a copy of the new Civil Service pension scheme.
§ Mr. Kenneth BakerYes, Sir, on 15th June. As a result, we have now been able to add to the annual reviews of existing pensions under the Pensions (Increase) Act substantial improvements in the pension scheme itself, including coverage of unestablished staff, preservation of pension rights, the basing of pensions and other benefits on the final year's salary, and half-rate widows' pensions.
§ Mr. JesselIs my hon. Friend aware that there are many retired civil servants living in my constituency, and will he continue to watch their interests carefully in relation to the rising cost of living?
§ Mr. BakerYes. The improvements made in the Civil Service pension scheme which have been approved by the two sides of the National Whitley Council make it one of the best schemes in the country and, as a country, we have every right to be proud of it.