71. Mr. V. Adamsasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he will introduce legislation to enable unmarried women to qualify for pensions at the age of 55 years?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ColvilleSimilar proposals have been made in the past but it has not been found possible to accept them.
Mr. AdamsIs my right hon. and gallant Friend not aware of the widespread support and need for the particular item mentioned in this question?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ColvilleMy hon. Friend will be aware that, apart from the possible reaction on other classes of pensioners, this proposal alone would cost £13,000,000.
§ Mr. StephenWill the Financial Secretary consider setting up a Parliamentary Committee to consider this matter?
Mr. AdamsDoes not my right hon. and gallant Friend recall the petition which was recently presented by the hon. Member for Central Edinburgh (Mr. Guy)?