§ 13. Mr. Stanleyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services when the next increase in the State basic and other public service pensions will take place, excluding the Christmas bonus.
§ Mrs. CastleI must ask the hon. Member to await the announcement of the Government's intentions in relation to social security benefits. Increases in public service pensions are not a matter for me but I understand that regulations were laid before the House in August providing for increases in those pensions to take effect from 1st December 1974.
§ Mr. StanleyI welcome the flexibility that has been shown by the right hon. Lady in the timing of the next increase in the State basic pension. Will she particularly bear in mind the latest forecast from the Price Commission of a rate of increase in the retail price index of about 20 per cent. in the current 12 months?
§ Mrs. CastleYes, Sir.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeWill the Secretary of State appreciate the dramatic fall in purchasing power of benefits between annual reviews at present rates of inflation? As the Conservative Party was prepared in February to undertake to introduce six-monthly reviews had it been returned to office, and as there are no administrative difficulties about a six-monthly review in January or February of next year, will the right hon. Lady confirm that the Government will find the political will to introduce that system?
§ Mrs. CastleAll I say to the hon. Gentleman is that actions speak louder than words. That is why we won the election.1974