§ Mr. J. McKayasked the Minister of Pensions if he is aware that pensioners who are in receipt of supplementary pensions, on receiving payment from the public assistance committee, are liable to suffer a reduction, usually 5s. per week, if they take in a lodger or a sub-tenant; and, as this is preventing some people from getting accommodation, if he will prevent such deductions from pensioners.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsI have been asked to reply. In making an award under the Supplementary Pensions Regulations the Assistance Board normally include an allowance for rent equivalent to the actual rent paid. In so far as such rent is recovered in part by sub-letting account must be taken of the fact; but the Assistance Board assure me that they will have regard in such cases to any expenses arising out of the sub-letting, including wear and tear of household goods. If my hon. Friend will let me have particulars of any1300W cases he has in mind I should be happy to have inquiries made.