§ 66. Mr. AMMONasked the Minister of Health when it was proposed to introduce amending legislation to deal with the state of affairs disclosed in the case of Carling v. Lebbon, in the administration 1278 of the Widows Orphans' and Old Age Contributory Pensions Act?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Sir Kingsley Wood)My right hon. Friend is not at present in a position to add anything to the answer given to the hon. Member on 26th April.
§ Mr. AMMONMay I ask the hon. Gentleman if he is aware that the woman who lost her husband had her compensation considerably reduced under the plea of the Campbell Act, which has nothing whatever to do with this Act, and will he not take some steps immediately to see that this sort of thing is stopped as soon as possible?
§ Sir K. WOODI am aware of that decision, but the matter will need amending legislation. As I have already stated, notice has been taken of this case for consideration in regard to any new legislation.
§ Sir HENRY SLESSERDoes not the hon. Member know that the Court expressed dissatisfaction with the technical effects resulting from this decision, and that that point was indicated to the Government during the Debates on this Act?
§ Sir K. WOODThat is a matter of argument, and I can give no expression of opinion.