§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will publish the cost at current rates of equalising the qualifying age for receipt of basic pension for both sexes at(a) 62 years, (b) 61 years and (c) 60 years.
§ Mrs. Gillian Shephard[holding answer 24 July 1989]: The information is not available in the form requested. The most recent estimates, which are based on 1985–86 benefit rates, are that the approximate net annual cost to public funds of equalising state pension age at 60 years would be £3,000 million.