Parry Replies To Whangarei Pensioners

Northern Advocate, 20 July 1949, Page 7

Parry Replies To Whangarei Pensioners

THE Minister of Social Security (Mr Parry) has written to the Whangarei Pensioners’ Association, replying to points raised in a letter by the secretary (Mr H. R. Collier) some weeks ago. Mr Parry stated that many of these points would be considered in conjunction with other legislation which was to be introduced at this session of Parliament, Regarding the means test and its application, he stated that the annual increase in the superannuation benefit had, in some way, overcome the difficulties that attach to the means test for those beneficiaries over 65.

Mr Collier’s questions on the possibility of a rise in pensions to offset Pie continued rise in the cost of living would be dealt with this session, the Minister stated in his reply. The question of housing for pensioners he -,ad referred to the Minister of Works. Concessions on railways to pensioners had been raised from time to ~ime. the Minister went on. “On each occasion an investigation has disclosed that if any concession were granted :o one particular class of beneficiary, hen, in all fairness, that concession vould have to be extended to other .lasses of the community, who could ightfully contend that their claims vere equally deserving." he wrote. Suggestions regarding 'a funeral

scheme for pensioners had been made previously but it was felt that the time was not opportune to introduce funeral benefits within the scope of the Social Security scheme, the Minister's letter concluded.

In his reply, thanking Mr Parry for his letter, Mr Collier, referring to the Minister's reference to the means test, said that inquiries to social security officers had led him to believe that social security beneficiaries were not entitled to superannuation. Therefore, there was no benefit to pensioners over 65.

Mr Collier quoted the Social Security Act as stating that no beneficiary may collect two benefits. He asked for the Minister's ruling on this.