HC Deb 24 June 1930 vol 240 cc971-2
61. Major ROSS

asked the Minister of Pensions if he is aware that in France, Belgium, Germany and the United States provision is made for the widows of men who died from the effect of War injuries, even when the marriage took place after the conclusion of the War; and if he will take steps to secure treatment not less generous in this country?

The MINISTER of PENSIONS (Mr. F. O. Roberts)

I am aware that pensions may be granted under certain conditions to widows of the class referred to in the countries named, where, however, there exists no other public provision on the same comprehensive scale as is embodied in the Widows', Orphans' and Old Age Pensions Acts of this country. I would point out that in any comparison between this and other countries the entire pension provision, civil as well as military, must be taken into account in each case. On this basis the provision for widows made by Parliament in this country is both far more comprehensive and gives a far better scale of grant than in any of the other countries named. I could not, therefore, recommend that, the fundamental principles of the War Pensions Scheme as approved by Parliament should be modified on a partial analogy of particular provisions in the schemes framed under other conditions in certain foreign countries.

Major ROSS

Is the right hon. Gentle man aware that there were certain persons who did not think it right to marry during the War, and does he not think that the present regulations weigh heavily on their dependants?

Mr. ROBERTS

I am aware of the fact as stated in the first part of the supplementary question, but I think that most of the cases are being well met.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a great many of the women who suffer now do not come within the scope of the Widows' Pensions, and that it is no comfort to them to know that other women may be benefiting?

Mr. MARLEY

Is the Minister aware that many of these War widows are under 55 and have no children under 14, and that therefore they get no help at all?

Mr. MOSES

Will the Minister say whether these cases are being considered?

Mr. ROBERTS

All cases brought to the notice of the Minister are being considered.

Mr. MOSES

Has any decision been reached?