HC Deb 06 May 1999 vol 330 cc449-50W
Mr. Webb

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security for what reason older pensioners receive higher rates of income support than younger pensioners. [82706]

Mr. Timms

The higher premium rate for older pensioners was proposed in the 1985 Green Paper "Reform of Social Security Programme for Change" for those most likely to have continuing health problems or to be frail and in need of special support in maintaining themselves in the community. The Green Paper proposed two routes to the premium, one age related, the other for younger pensioners receiving benefits related to disability or continuing incapacity.