§ 63. Mr. Alec Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services when the figure of 20s. was fixed as the total of other income to be disregarded in calculating supplementary pensions for people over pension age; what is his estimate of the present figure on the basis that it had been increased from that date in line with the rise in the cost of living; and what plans he has for increasing the present level.
§ Mr. EnnalsThis disregard of 20s. of other income was introduced in November, 1966, when the supplementary benefits scheme started. On the basis of the Retail Prices Index at October, 1969, the current equivalent would be 22s. 7d. There are no plans at present for making any increase in the level of disregards.