§ Mr. Ralph Howellasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what was the total number of retirement pensioners in the United Kingdom for each of the years 1960, 1970 and 1979, and at the latest date available; and what was the total amount paid both at constant and 1960 prices in retirement pensions.
§ Dr. BoysonThe figures are shown in the following table:
1959–60 1969–70 1978–79 1982–83 Numbers receiving retirement pension (United Kingdom) (millions) *5.56 †7.34 ‡8.85 ║9.48 Actual expenditure (£ million) 670 1,662 7,757 13,845 Expenditure at 1960 prices¶ (£ millions) 670 1,161 1,869 2,075 * As at 31 March 1960. † As at 31 December 1969. ‡ As at 31 December 1978. ║ As at 31 March 1983. ¶ Based upon financial year average of Retail Price Index as at 1960.