§ Mr. Randallasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will estimate the average effect of the proposed increases in gas and electricity prices on single and married retirement pensioners, expressed as a percentage of their state pensions.
§ Mr. Peter ReesI regret that the information is not available in the form requested. However, it has been estimated that the recent 4.3 per cent. average increase in gas prices will mean an increase in an average household's gas bill of 20p per week, and that the recommended 2 per cent. increase in electricity prices in England and Wales will add 6p per week to an average bill.
The Government expect to spend around £380 million this year on supplementary benefit heating additions. Around 1.5 million pensioners will benefit from these additions, which are now worth more than ever before. I also refer the hon. Member to the written answer given by my hon. Friend the Minister for Social Security on 12 March 1984, at column 67.