HC Deb 27 March 1913 vol 50 cc1843-4W
Mr. LEICESTER HARMSWORTH

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will state the number of old age pensions paid in Caithness each week, and the amount thereof?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

On 31st March, 1912 (the last date for which figures are available) there were 1,921 pensioners resident in the county of Caithness. The amount of the weekly payments cannot be stated, but it may be estimated as approximately £460 for that number of pensioners, the average pension paid being taken at £12 10s. per annum.

Sir HENRY HAVELOCK-ALLAN

asked the President of the Local Government Board why, in the case of the old age pensioners resident in the aged miners' homes at Middlestone Moor, county Durham, a reduction of pension on account of free lodging is being made which is greater than the reduction at similar homes in other parts of the same county?

Mr. BURNS

I have received an appeal against a decision of the local pension sub-committee, in which the question of the value of the benefit or privilege enjoyed by the provision of free residence in the homes referred to arises. Before corning to a decision. I have instructed the general inspector for the district to confer with the sub-committee on the subject.