§ 44. Mr. Rookerasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received about a further increase in retirement pensions.
§ Mr. EnnalsI refer my hon. Friend to my reply to my hon. Friends the Members for Chorley (Mr. Rodgers) and Sowerby (Mr. Madden), earlier today.
§ 49. Mr. Arthur Lathamasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will undertake a study with a view to linking of present-day pensions with average earnings.
§ Mr. OrmeBasic retirement pensions have to be increased in line with average earnings or prices, whichever is the more advantageous for pensioners. This ensures that the basic pension will at least be maintained as a percentage of average earnings.
Employed contributors who are not contracted-out of the new pension scheme will, in addition, receive an earnings-related additional component. I have no proposals at this stage to undertake a study such as is suggested by my hon. Friend.