asked the Minister of Education how many retired teachers under the English superannuation scheme are now over the age of 75 years, if men, and 70 years, if women.

In March, 1956, 5,395 men aged 75 and over and 28,568 women aged 70 and over were receiving pensions under this scheme.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that these teachers and other superannuated people of similar age live on meagre pensions based on very small salaries and that the pensions bear no relation to those given for similar service now? Will he take the matter up with the Chancellor of the Exchequer to ascertain whether some improvement can be made in veterans' pensions?

I see the hon. Gentleman's point, but I think he will agree that the question of any increase in pensions for retired teachers is not one which can be viewed altogether in isolation from other public service superannuation schemes.