CONFIDENCE VOTE FOR MOLLET

Press, Volume XCIII, Issue 28002, 23 June 1956, Page 10

CONFIDENCE VOTE FOR MOLLET

Higher Pensions Bill Approved (N.Z. Press Association —Copyright) (Fr. 10 p.m.) PARIS. J ’’ ne 22 The French Prime Minister (Mr Guy Mollet) todav foiled Senate attempts to kill his bill to raise old age pensions by winning an overwhelming majority in the National Assembly Jthird vote of the bill. He staked the life of the Government on the bill by making it an issue of confidence. Twice the Senate rejected it. but the Lower House, which has the last word, has now passed it three times. . Deputies approved the bill today by 341 votes to 35. The bill will increase nld age pensions at a cost of 140.000.000.000 francs (about £140.000.000), financed largely by Opposition to the bill has been centred on the proposed taxes rather than on pensions for the aged, who are known to have serious difficulties because of rising prices. Before the final vote today, the Assembly gave Mr Mollct two other votes of confidence, the first on new taxes to raise monev for the pensions, and the second rejecting a Senate amendment which would have reduced the scone of the bill. . . For the first time. French motorists will have to pay an annual tax on their cars averaging about 8000 francs (about £8). • In addition, higher income tax rates will be imposed.