Written question asked by Bill Olner (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 21 May 1996. It was answered by Oliver Heald (Conservative) on Tuesday, 21 May 1996 on behalf of the Department of Social Security.

Dept of Social Security

Question: What action he proposes to take to tackle poverty among pensioners. (Failed OPQ)

Answer: Mr. Olner: To ask the Secretary of State for Social security what action he proposes to take to tackle poverty among pensioners.[28830] Mr. Heald: Our policy has been to increase the basic retirement pension in line with the annual rise in prices, encourage personal provision through occupational and private pensions and to target additional resources on poorer pensioners through income-related benefits. Between 1979 and 1993 pensioners' average income increased by more than 50 per cent.

Secondary information