HC Deb 12 December 1928 vol 223 cc2123-4
61. Mr. LUNN

asked the Minister of Health if widows in receipt of pension are permitted to draw the pension if they migrate to the Dominions?

Sir K. WOOD

The answer is in the negative, but I would refer the hon. Member to the reply on 29th November of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs, to a question by the hon. Member for Ashton under-Lyne (Mr. Bellamy).

Mr. LUNN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is a deterrent to many widows who desire to go overseas? Is he also aware that certain shipping agents are informing widows that they will receive their pensions if they go overseas, and will he take steps to put a stop to that information being given if it is not the fact?

Sir K. WOOD

If the hon. Member will send me particulars, I will look into them. As regards the first part of his question, it would be a desirable thing if these reciprocal arrangements could be made, and in a previous reply, on 29th November, my right hon. Friend stated that communications were being addressed to the Dominion Governments with a view to seeing whether we could obtain a settlement of the matter as soon as possible.

Mr. LAWSON

Is it a fact that the Ministry of Pensions gives pensions under these circumstances?

Sir K. WOOD

The hon. Member is mistaken. We are dealing with widows' pensions.

Mr. LAWSON

Is it not a fact that the Ministry of Pensions does?

Sir K. WOOD

The Ministry of Pensions is not concerned.

Mr. MACKINDER

Is it not a fact that naval, military and police pensions are paid?

Sir K. WOOD

If the hon. Member will look at the question, he will see that it deals with widows.

Mr. MACKINDER

I am asking the right hon. Gentleman why he should differentiate.

Sir K. WOOD

The hon. Member had better refer to the Debate when the matter was discussed.