HC Deb 31 July 1998 vol 317 cc743-4W
Mr. Breed

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans he has to increase the extra payment to those aged 80 years or over. [54059]

Mr. Denham

We believe that all pensioners should share fairly in rising national prosperity and are committed to examine the means of delivering more help to the poorest pensioners—many of whom are over 80. The Pensions Review is considering all aspects of basic State pension and its value, including the 25p age addition.

We have already taken action to help the poorest of those pensioners who are aged 80 or over. From April 1999, these older pensioners who are on Income Support and receive the Higher Pensioner Premium will be entitled to £82.25 a week (up from £77.55) if they are single and £125.30 (up from £117.90) for a couple.