§ 36. Mr. CoakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if she will make a statement on the level of the basic state pension. [912]
§ Mr. DenhamWe will retain the basic state pension as the foundation of security in retirement provision; it has a vital part to play in providing a decent standard of living in retirement. We will increase it at least in line with prices.
My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will shortly be announcing details of a review of the central areas of insecurity for elderly people. All aspects of the basic pension will be included in our review.