§ 20. Mr. ProsserTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on his proposals to help the poorest pensioners. [141855]
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§ Dawn PrimaroloWe are significantly increasing the Minimum Income Guarantee next year for two million of the country's poorest pensioners. The new, aligned rates will be £92.15 a week for single pensioners and £140.55 for couples. These will then be raised in line with average earnings, reaching £100 and £154 a week by 2003. In addition, we are consulting on a new Pension Credit which will benefit 5.5 million pensioners with low and moderate incomes.