§ Mr. OttawayTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans she has to amend the rules with regard to downrating of the state retirement pension for pensioners who are in hospital for six weeks or more. [2499]
§ Mr. DenhamMost Social Security benefits, including Retirement Pension, are reduced after a period in hospital. These rules have been applied, with only minor modifications, since the introduction of the National Insurance scheme on the basis that State funds should not make double provision for the same needs. There are no plans to amend these rules.