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22 Apr 2004 : Column 670W—continued

Pension Credit

Mr. Webb: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will list the categories of pension credit recipient who are entitled to a level of guarantee credit in excess of the standard level. [167319]

Malcolm Wicks: The guarantee credit provides, or contributes towards, a guaranteed minimum level of income of £105.45 a week for single people aged 60 and over (£160.95 for couples). These standard amounts may be more for people who have caring responsibilities, are severely disabled or have certain housing costs.

For some people who were getting transitional protection in their income support or jobseeker's allowance before they started to get pension credit a transitional extra amount may be included.

State Second Pension

Mr. Webb: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions from what date entitlement to the State Second Pension will accrue on a flat-rate basis; and if he will make a statement. [167318]

Malcolm Wicks: No decision has been taken as yet regarding the date from which State Second Pension may begin to accrue on a flat-rate basis.

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