asked the Minister of National Insurance why Mr. and Mrs. George Wainwright, 69 years of age and 68 years of age, respectively, who are both entitled to the increased old age pension rate, have not yet received their new books, although they have made the necessary application to his Department at Blackpool eight times since 28th September, 1946; and what steps he proposes to take to hasten this matter.

New pension order books have now been sent to the Assistance Board for both Mr. and Mrs. Wainwright, who should receive them either today or tomorrow.

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that the whole question of delay in sending these new books is evidence of the inevitable breakdown of State control and centralised administration?

That has nothing to do with this Question.

In view of the many complaints which hon. Members have had on this issue, will the Minister see that when they make application an acknowledgment is sent to old age pensioners?

Last week I made a very full and frank statement indicating the difficulty and the steps which we are taking to expedite the matter.