§ 61. Mr. Kirbyasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he will consider the desirability of introducing legislation for the purpose of increasing pensions under the Widows', Orphans', and Old Age Contributory Pensions Act and also to provide that widows are granted pensions in cases where the late husband was within the scope of the Act, irrespective of how many contributions he had paid?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ColvilleNo, Sir. The additional cost of any appreciable increase in the rate of pension would itself be substantial. As regards the second part of the question, if benefits were granted irrespective of the number of contributions paid, there would be a further large increase, the amount of which would depend, not only on the number of new pensioners admitted, but also on whether it was found possible to retain the principle of contributions after the change.
§ Mr. KirbyIs the Financial Secretary aware that there is a great deal of dissatisfaction with the present law and regulations in regard to this matter, and that they are likely to bring sorrow into a great many homes in this country to-day?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ColvilleI cannot agree with the hon. Member.