HC Deb 19 June 2000 vol 352 cc77-8W
14. Mr. Crausby

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many people he expects will gain from the Government's proposed state second pension. [124959]

24. Ms Southworth:

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what action his Department is taking to help low-paid people to provide for their retirement.[124971]

Mrs. Lawrence

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what steps he is taking to help low-paid people provide for their retirement.[124955]

Mr. Rooker

The State Second Pension will reform SERPS to help around 14 million low and moderate earners to build up much greater pension entitlements. In addition, around four million carers and long-term disabled people with broken work records will be able to build up a second pension for the first time.

21. Mr. Burns

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will make a statement on the increase in the state retirement pension in April.[124967]

Mr. Rooker

The basic State Retirement Pension has been increased in line with inflation, as is the normal practice.

Our first priority has been to concentrate help on the poorest pensioners, which is why we introduced the minimum income guarantee and increased it in line with earnings. In addition, we have introduced a range of measures to help all pensioners and poorer pensioners in particular.

27. Mr. Robathan

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what representations he has received regarding this year's increment in the basic state pension. [124974]

Mr. Rooker

I refer the hon. Member to my written answer of 13 June 2000,Official Report, column 609W.

30. Mr. Corbyn

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security when he plans to announce the pension increase for 2001–02.[124977]

Mr. Rooker

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State is required to review the levels of benefit each year. The results of my right hon. Friend's review will be announced at the normal time in the normal way.

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