HC Deb 10 March 1994 vol 239 cc320-1W
Mr. David Atkinson

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what is his estimate of the number of over-80s who are not entitled to the basic retirement pension; how much it would cost for them to be provided with one; what help they will receive towards value added tax on their fuel; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Hague

It is estimated that approximately 75,000 persons in Great Britain who are aged 80 or over do not receive a basic state retirement pension. The estimated net cost of providing standard rate basic retirement pension to them is approximately £85 million per year at April 1994 prices.

Those not in receipt of basic pension but who receive income support will receive an additional 50p per week—single people—or 70p per week—couples. Those not in receipt of basic pension or income support but who receive the non-contributory retirement pension, available to persons aged 80 and over, will receive an additional 20p per week.