Pensions

HC Deb 08 December 1958 vol 597 cc7-8W

66. Mr. McKay

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance what he estimates would be the total cost in 1958–59 and 1959–60 of increasing the pensions of married and single pensioners by 10s. a week, and of increasing the other benefits under the National Insurance Act in proportion.

Miss Pitt

On the assumption that no increase is given in respect of wives, rather less than £150 million in 1958–59, and rather more than £150 million in 1959–60.

Mr. Gresham Cooke

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance what he estimates would be the cost of raising all pensions by 10 per cent. to allow for an equivalent increase in the cost of living.

Miss Pitt

The cost of a 10 per cent. increase in all pensions and benefits administered by my Department, including war pensions, would be about £105 million in 1959–60, rising to about £140 million in 1981–82.