HC Deb 02 December 1937 vol 329 cc2279-80W
Mr. C. Wilson

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the number of persons in Sheffield over 65 years of age in receipt of old age and widows' pensions and who are also in receipt of public assistance rose from 3,525 on 1st January, 1933, to 4,859 on 1st January, 1937, and was 4,629 on 23rd October, 1937; and whether he can state the reason for this increase?

Sir K. Wood

Yes, Sir, the percentage increase disclosed by these figures corresponds closely with that for the country as a whole. I am not aware of any special reason for an increase in Sheffield, but, as the hon. Member is no doubt aware, the number of pensioners in general has risen with the increase in size of the higher age-groups of the population.