HC Deb 24 May 1927 vol 206 cc1837-8
60. Sir MERVYN MANNINGHAMBULLER

asked the Minister of Health if he will give the latest available figures to date showing the numbers of widows and orphans who have benefited under the Widows', Orphans', and Old Age Contributory Pensions Act?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Sir Kingsley Wood)

Widows' pensions have been awarded to 202,147 widows. Additional allowances have been awarded in respect of approximately 262,000 children. Orphans' pensions have been awarded in respect of 16,300 orphan children.

Mr. TAYLOR

Can the hon. Gentleman say what proportion this represents of widows who are in need in this country?