§ Mr. DavidsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what discussions he has had with pensioner organisations in Scotland about initiatives to inform older people of their rights. [156571]
§ Mr. RookerMinisters regularly meet representatives of pensioner organisations, including those based in Scotland. On 2 March 2001 we published a Scottish edition of our pensioners guide which provides information of a range of help and advice available to older people through central and local Government.
§ Mr. DavidsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what changes have been made since 1997 to pension and social security provision for pensioners living in poverty. [156575]
§ Mr. RookerThe poorest pensioners will have gained from some or all of the extra increases in basic State Pension, tax allowances and Minimum Income Guarantee, together with Winter Fuel Payments and free TV licences.
As a result of tax and benefit measures introduced by this Government, the poorest pensioner households on the MIG will, on average, be at least £15 a week, or £800 a year, better off in real terms.