§ Mr. Kershawasked the Minister of Social Security whether she is satisfied that the sum of 16s. a week pocket money is enough to sustain the personal needs of long-term patients in hospital, especially geriatric patients; and whether she will make a statement.
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§ Miss HerbisonI am satisfied that in determining the rate of National Insurance benefit which is payable to long-term hospital patients it is reasonable to take into account the fact that everything necessary for the patient's comfort and well-being is provided free of charge. The benefit that is payable is only intended for any small extras which a patient may feel he would like to have.