§ Mr. CAVEasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether his attention has been called to the numerous cases in which a woman, otherwise qualified for the old age pension, has been unable to obtain either because, being the wife or widow of a British soldier, she has resided during part of the qualifying period of twenty years in a British Colony or Dependency, or because, being a British subject by birth, she has married an alien living in this country and on his death has retained his nationality; and whether he will introduce or facilitate the introduction into the Finance Bill, 1910–11, of a Clause for putting an end to hardships of this character?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEMy right hon. Friend's attention has been called to various cases in which hardship arises in connection with the statutory conditions both in respect of nationality and in respect of residence, and the question of amending these conditions is under consideration. The matter is, however, one which will have to be dealt with by a separate Bill amending the Old Age Pensions Act. Provisions of this character would scarcely be relevant to the annual Finance Bill.
§ Sir J. D. REESIs the condition as to nationality to be abrogated, and will there be no opportunity of expressing the opinion of the House upon it?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEIf a Bill was brought in the House would be able to express an opinion upon it. My right hon. Friend thinks that the Bill would be the simplest method.