§ 21. Mr. BlizzardTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much additional expenditure has been directed exclusively to pensioners since May 1997. [106905]
§ Mr. Andrew SmithFrom May 1997 until the financial year 2001–02, the Government have made available an additional £4 billion in real terms exclusively for pensioners. We have introduced the Minimum Income Guarantee which will be uprated by earnings growth through the remainder of this Parliament and Winter Fuel Payments of £100 per year per pensioner household. This year, we will introduce free TV licences for pensioners aged 75 and over and pensioners will receive free access to National museums in England where there are currently charges. The Government's Transport Bill contains proposals to guarantee pensioners at least half-price fares on buses in return for passes costing no more than five pounds.