§ Mr. Lipsonasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that many old age pensioners are concerned because the forms of application for a supplemental pension are not yet available at post offices; and will he state when these forms will be obtainable?
§ Mr. ElliotAs I have indicated in reply to previous Questions, forms of application and explanatory leaflets, will be available in good time before supplementary pensions first become payable. As I explained to the House while the Bill for the recent Act was under discussion, August next is the earliest possible date at which supplementary pensions can come into effect.
§ Mr. Grovesasked the Minister of Health whether he will inquire into the circumstances attending the fact that three months ago Mrs. Sarah J. Lennox, 36, Cullum Street, Stratford, E., applied for a pension and, although her application has been acknowledged and numbered405/1528, no decision has yet been given; and will he expedite matters?
§ Mr. ElliotYes, Sir. I am making immediate inquiries and I will communicate with the hon. Member as soon as they have been completed.
§ Mr. E. Smithasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that forms on which application can be made for a supplementary old age pension are not yet available at many post offices; and 1136W whether he will see that they are supplied and that an explanatory leaflet be issued explaining clearly the rights of people under the 1940 Pensions Act?
§ Mr. ElliotI would refer the hon. Member to the answer which is being given to-day to the hon. Member for Cheltenham (Mr. Lipson).