§ Mr. Alec Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services when the figure of 20 shillings 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. DeanThe level of £1 was fixed in November 1966, and the amount currently needed to give it the same purchasing power would be £1.58. We have no immediate plans for an increase.