HC Deb 13 June 1978 vol 951 c826
17. Mr. Tim Smith

asked the Secretady of State for Social Services by how much the 25p addition to the retirement pension payable to pensioners aged 80 years and over would have to be increased to restore it to its real value when introduced.

Mr. Orme

To restore the value which the national insurance age addition had when it was introduced in 1971, on the basis of the movement of the general index of retail prices, it would be necestary to increase it from 25p to 60p.

Mr. Smith

Was this not a very valuable and widely welcomed supplement when it was introduced? Why have the Government effectively devalued it in this way?

Mr. Orme

This is one of many benefits that must be considered in the light of public expenditure costs. This Government have done a great deal for pensioners in this country. We do not need to apologise about it.