§ Mr. Longdenasked the Minister of National Insurance the figures for the numbers involved and cost to the Exchequer of the old age pensioners who come under the respective categories of contributory at the age of 65 and non-contributory at the age of 70.
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§ Mr. J. GriffithsThe approximate numbers at 31st March, 1945, and the estimated cost to the Exchequer in the year
— Approximate numbers at 31st March, 1945 Estimated cost to the Exchequer in 1944–45 of pensions to these classes of pensioner. Contributory old age pensions to persons between the ages of 65 and 70 (60–70 in the case of women) including about 450,000 widows over age 60 pensioned under the Contributory Pensions Acts. 1,809,600} £60,500,000 Pensions by virtue of the Contributory Pensions Acts (not subject to a means test) payable to persons over age 70. 1,763,600 Non-contributory pensions payable to persons over age 70 subject to a means test. 406,400 £10,770,000 3,979,600 £71,270,000 In addition, the following numbers and amounts of Supplementary old age pensions were paid during the year ended on 31st March, 1945, the costing falling on the Exchequer:
— Approximate numbers at 31st March, 1945. Estimated cost to the Exchequer in 1944–45. To contributory old age and widow pensioners (age 65–70 men, 60–70 women). 483,000} £46,820,000 To old age pensioners aged 70 and over, in receipt of pensions by virtue of the Contributory Pensions Acts. 889,000 To old age pensioners aged 70 and over, in receipt of pensions subject to a means test (non-contributory). 218,000 £7,940,000 1,590,000 £54,760,000