§ 89. Mr. BATEYasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether steps can now be taken to amend the Widows', Orphans', and Old Age Pensions Act, 1925, so that when a man receives the old age pension at 65 years of age his wife may at the same time receive the pension although not 65 years of age?
§ Mr. W. S. MORRISONI would refer the hon. Member to the answer given on 9th December, 1935, to the hon. Member for Leigh (Mr. Tinker).
§ Mr. BATEYIs the Minister not aware of the urgent need for something to be done immediately, seeing that many of these women have to apply for Poor Law relief? Will not the Government reconsider this matter?
§ Mr. MORRISONThe reply which I have given to the hon. Member refers to a previous reply which shows that the whole of the matter has been under consideration, but the state of affairs is such that the suggestion cannot be adopted at the present time.
§ Mr. BATEYWill the Department or the Government go into this matter again, seeing that it is so urgent and there is need for something to be done?
§ Mr. THORNEHow is it that the Government can find money for armaments and not for a deserving object of this kind?
§ Mr. BATEYIn view of the most unsatisfactory reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment.