HC Deb 15 February 1938 vol 331 cc1709-10
71. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Minister of Pensions the number of widows and other women, respectively, who have been prosecuted by his Department since 1918 for fraudulent receipt of pension?

Mr. Grimston

I have been asked to reply. I am informed that there are no figures prior to 1922, but since 1st January of that year 327 prosecutions for obtaining, or attempting to obtain, pension by fraudulent misrepresentation were initiated against women pensioners, of whom 118 were widows.

Mr. Sorensen

Can the hon. Gentleman say what proportion of those charges were dropped?

Mr. Grimston

I am afraid not. Perhaps the hon. Member will put the question down.