HC Deb 11 June 1931 vol 253 cc1174-5
5. Mr. R. A. TAYLOR

asked the Minister of Labour if she proposes to introduce legislation to provide that in all cases when dependant's benefit ceases to be payable by reason of a claimant having attained the age of 65 wives of unemployed men who are under 65 years of age shall continue to be entitled to dependant's benefit under the Unemployment Insurance Act?

22. Mr. MILLS

asked the Minister of Labour if her attention has been called to the hardship imposed upon the wives of unemployed men who have reached the age of 65; and whether she will consider amending legislation to ensure some form of allowance?

Miss BONDFIELD

Dependant's benefit is an addition to ordinary benefit and is not payable unless the latter is payable. I am afraid I cannot undertake to propose a departure from this principle.

Mr. TAYLOR

Will any proposed legislation deal with the very unfortunate position of men who reach 65 years of age and then may have to face life on 10s. a week?

Miss BONDFIELD

I am afraid that it does not fall within my Department to answer that question.

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