§ Hywel WilliamsTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what plans he has to increase the 25p addition for pensioners aged over 80. [8347]
§ Mr. McCartneyThis Government have done much to help older pensioners since we came to office. The free television licences for those aged over 75 is worth over £100 a year. The Winter Fuel Payment is worth £200 per household and the Minimum Income Guarantee has been increased this year to £92.15 a week for a single pensioner and £140.55 for a couple. Under this Government, older pensioners are sharing in rising prosperity. The 25p addition for pensioners aged over 80 was introduced in 1971 and, like all benefits, is kept under constant review.