§ Mr. LawsTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will make it his policy to ensure that support to pensioners is increased in line with GDP growth; and if he will make a statement. [6063]
§ Mr. McCartneyWe want all pensioners to have a decent and secure income in retirement and to share fairly in the rising prosperity of the country. We are providing significant extra help for pensioners, including a £200 winter fuel payment and a minimum income guarantee of more than £92 a week for single pensioners. We have increased the basic state pension by £5 a week for single people and £8 a week for couples. In 2001–02 alone, we will be spending £4.4 billion more in real terms on help for pensioners than was spent in 1996–97.