§ 93. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance if he will take steps to ensure that old-age pensioners will be given free transport from their homes to the respective places where they receive their pensions and where they receive necessary hospital treatment.
§ Brigadier SmythNo. If a pensioner is unable, through infirmity, to call at the nearest post office to draw his pension, he can nominate someone to do this for him. As regards attendance at hospital for treatment, the Minister of Health points out that arrangements already exist by which persons who cannot afford a bus or train fare can get help from the National Assistance Board or, if they are too ill to use public transport, will be conveyed by ambulance.
§ 94. Mr. Osborneasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance if he will give an undertaking that any increase that may be granted to old-age pensioners will date from 1st November, 1954.
§ Brigadier SmythI cannot add to the statements made by my right hon. Friend on 25th October.