12
able to continue to receive the allowance without
undergoing any form of means test, but new applicants,
to
both those in the 65/69 age group who will be eligible for
the allowance for the first time, and the over 70s, who
will receive an increased allowance, would be required to
make a declaration that their income and assets did not
exceed certain levels. This proposal was in line with our
policy that help should go to those whose need is
greatest.
zt.
Many Members pointed out that the Old Age
Allowance, when originally introduced for the over 75s and
later extended to those over 70, was not means-tested and
was intended to meet the additional expenditure incurred
by elderly people because of their age. It was related to
the circumstances of their age, and not to their financial
Some members said that while they accepted the
need for an income declaration for the 65/69 age group,
they strongly opposed its introduction for the over 70s,
which was widely seen as a retrograde step.
condition.
23.
During the last week we have re-examined the
proposals in the light of the strong views expressed and
I am sure Members will be pleased to hear that we have now decided
that it would be appropriate to dispense with the
requirement for an income declaration by all new
70
applicants over seventy, while retaining it for those