HC Deb 02 February 1953 vol 510 cc166-7W
20. Mr. Peter Freeman

asked the Minister of National Insurance in view of the increase in the cost of living and the fact that the earnings limit of non-contributory old age pensioners is still maintained at £1 per week, whether he will raise this to £2 per week which operates in the case of contributory pensioners, as many of them are now unable to live on their present earnings.

Mr. Turton

The National Insurance Act, 1946, by fixing a time limit after which no new non-contributory pensions can be granted, clearly recognised their transitional character. In the circumstances, my right hon. Friend is not prepared to introduce legislation modifying the conditions under which they are granted.