The conversion rates for sterling and other EU currencies to be used for social security purposes are fixed each quarter by EU regulations. The conversion factor used in the latest review of this case, in December 1998, was 1.11324. The weekly means of the person concerned, who is in receipt of a UK retirement pension of Stg. £3,874 per annum, is calculated at £76 per week. On this basis, the rate of pension applicable in his case is £2.50, with living alone and fuel allowances payable in addition.
Beneficiaries of means-tested payments, including old age (non-contributory) pension are required to nofity increases in their means to this Department as they arise. Where pensioners are known to be in receipt of other income such as a UK retirement pension, the Department undertakes periodic reviews of such cases to determine the correct rate of old age pension payable.