§ Major Petoasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what annual amount the State is now paying towards the cost of old age, widows' and orphans' pensions?
§ Sir K. WoodPayments from the Exchequer in the forthcoming financial year towards the Contributory and Non-contributory schemes are estimated at £73,500,000. In addition, the Exchequer has to meet the cost of Supplementary pensions to old age pensioners and to widow pensioners over the age of 60 Which are estimated to cost £30,500,000 in 1942–43, bringing the total charge for the year up to £104,000,000. These figures do not include the cost of war pensions, pensions under the Personal Injuries (Civilians) Scheme or pensions to blind persons.