§ Mr. Burdenasked the Secretary of State for Defence what sum is now drawn by long-service pensioners who drew £2 in 1950; and what the present figure is worth in comparison with £2 in 1950.
§ Mr. ReynoldsA Service pensioner awarded £2 a week in 1950 would now draw £3 4s. a week if aged 60 or over; the comparative value to take account of the increase in the cost of living since 1950 would be £3 17s. However, if the Pensions (Increase) Bill presented to the House yesterday is passed in its present form, pensioners on the 1950 code will receive a further 18 per cent. increase with effect from 1st April, 1969. This will bring an award of £2 in 1950 up to £3 15s. 6d. per week for a pensioner over 60.