§ Mr. Foulkesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what specific consideration is given to heating costs when calculating the level of the retirement pension; and how this is calculated.
§ Mr. ScottFuel prices are included in the retail price index which is used as a basis for the uprating of pensions. Changes in heating costs are therefore taken into account automatically when pensions are increased to reflect the overall rise in the cost of living. Help with heating costs is given to supplementary pensioner householders throughout the year and extra payments may also be made during periods of exceptionally cold weather. This help will continue to be available following the social security reforms next April.