§ Mr. Gaitskellasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance what increase in standard weekly benefits would be required, using the Interim Index of Retail Prices, to restore the real value of the benefits to that obtaining in July, 1948, when the National Insurance Act came into operation, and in October, 1946, when the increased pensions became payable, respectively; what these increases would cost in total and for retirement pensions, respectively; and what savings would be achieved in National Assistance as a result of these increases.
§ Mr. PeakeOn the basis of the Interim Index of Retail Prices, and the earlier cost of living index which it superseded, the figures are:
able, respectively; what these increases would cost in total and for retirement pensions, respectively; and what savings would be achieved in National Assistance as a result of these increases.
§ Mr. PeakeThis is an unofficial index. It has always been the practice to use the official cost-of-living or retail price index when considering National Insurance benefits.