§ Mr. T. A. LEWISasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether lie is aware of the hardships suffered by recipients of old age pensions owing to the utter inadequacy of the present allowance in face of the increased cost of living; and whether the Government can see their way to increase the present rate of pension?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINThe Government will await the Report of the Committee which is inquiring into this question before deciding whether to make any change in the rate or conditions of old age pensions, but I must remind the House that, as I stated yesterday, no provision is made in the Estimates which I have presented to the House for further expenditure under 891W this head, and if further expenditure is undertaken, additional taxation will be required.
Mr. A. DAVIES (Clitheroe)asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether Joseph Thompson, of 31, Lime Street, Great Harwood, who was seventy years of age on the 3rd March last, submitted his application for old age pension on the 12th February, and did not receive his first payment until the 13th May, the arrears being £3 15s.; and whether, in view of the delay in settling his claim, he will give instructions for the payment of these arrears?
§ Mr. BALDWINI am having inquiries made into this matter, and will acquaint the hon. Member with the result.