§ Mr. Winnickasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the Government's view on future pension increases; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RossiThe Government have given a clear undertaking that, over the lifetime of this Parliament, they will maintain the value of retirement pensions and those other long term social security benefits which are uprated in line with them. In the current very difficult economic situation, this is all the country can afford. As the economy improves, however, it is our intention that pensioners should share in rising living standards.