§ Mr. Sillarsasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the current level of supplementary benefit disregards in respect of mineworkers' pensions; when it was last raised ; and what plans she has for raising the levels once again.
§ Mr. Alec JonesOccupational pensions generally qualify for a disregard of £1 a week. This amount was fixed in November 1966 but, having regard to the growth in coverage of occupational pension schemes and to the fact that retirement pensions and additions to them are taken fully into account for supplementary benefit purposes, the Government propose to maintain the disregard of occupational pensions at its present level.