HC Deb 02 April 2001 vol 366 cc82-3W
4. Mr. Blizzard

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what changes have been made since 1997 to help pensioners on modest occupational pensions. [154861]

Mr. Rooker

Pensioners with modest occupational pensions will have gained from some or all of the extra increases in basic state pension, tax allowances and minimum income guarantee, together with winter fuel payments and free TV licences.

As a result of tax and benefit measures introduced by this Government, all pensioner households will, on average, be over £11 a week, or £580 a year, better off.

25. Mr. Purchase

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what changes have been made to the social security system to help pensioners with small occupational pensions in the last year. [154884]

Mr. Rooker

Pensioners with small occupational pensions will have gained from some or all of the extra increases in the basic state pension, tax allowances and minimum income guarantee, together with winter fuel payments and free TV licenses.

In addition, many pensioners with small pensions who have managed to save will benefit from the doubling of the lower capital limit in MIG, which is introduced on 9 April.

As a result of tax and benefit measures introduced by this Government, all pensioner households will, on average, be over £11 a week, or £580 a year, better off.