§ Mr. PlaskittTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many pensioners had a reduction in their state retirement benefit as a result of a stay in hospital; by what amount the state retirement benefit is reduced in these circumstances; and how much was saved by his Department as a result of reduced benefit payments in the last full year for which figures are available.[8678]
§ Mr. McCartneyAt 31 March 2001, there were about 33,000 retirement pensioners with reductions in their retirement pension due to a stay in hospital1
The hospital downrating rules led to an estimated £57 million reduction on expenditure on the basic state pension in 2000–01.
From 9 April 2001, a £14.50 reduction for a person with a dependant applies after a six-week stay in hospital. This reduction was £13.50 at 31 March 2001.
From 9 April 2001, a £28.30 reduction for a person with no dependant applies after a six-weeks stay in hospital. This reduction was £27.00 at 31 March 2001.
After 52 weeks retirement pension recipients get the £14.50 "pocket money" rate.
1Source:
5 per cent. from the Pension Strategy Computer System at March 2001. Rounding to nearest hundred
§ Mr. GrayTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what recent discussions he has had with Age Concern about the equalisation of state pensions; and if he will make a statement.[9381]
§ Mr. McCartneyWe have discussions with a variety of pension organisations from time to time. These discussions generally cover wide-ranging issues which are of concern to them.