§ Mr. HASLAMasked the Secretary to the Treasury whether an order has yet been issued that, in cases where the earnings do not exceed 20s. per week in rural areas and 30s. in urban areas, separation allowances shall not be taken into account when fixing or reviewing old age pensions; and whether effect is being now given to the recent statement made by the Prime Minister on the above subject?
Mr McKINNON WOODI would refer my hon. Friend to the statement as to administrative concessions to old age pensioners which was presented on the 10th instant (Cd. 8320), of which I am sending him a copy.
§ Mr. HASLAMasked the Secretary to the Treasury whether the administrative expenses of the local pensions committees will be paid from State funds; and, if not, in which way will such expenses be met?
Mr. McKINNON WOODMy right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer has agreed to make a grant of a sum not exceeding one-half of the administrative expenses of the local authorities subject to a certain scale.