17. Mr. Davidsonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland the total amount paid in old age and widows' pensions in Scotland for the years ended September, 1936, 1937 and 1938?
§ Mr. ColvilleAs the reply contains a table of figures I propose, with the hon. Member's permission, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
Mr. DavidsonCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether the total amount has increased during these years?
§ Mr. ColvilleYes, by almost £500,000.
§ Following is the reply:
§ All are approximate figures.
| Year to 30th September. | 1936. | 1937. | 1938. |
| £'000. | £'000. | £'000. | |
| Widows' pensions | 2,562 | 2,536 | 2,552 |
| Contributory old age: | |||
| (65–70) | 2,098 | 2,203 | 2,261 |
| (over 70) | 2,914 | 3,086 | 3,324 |
| Non-contributory old age (including blind). | 1,744 | 1,659 | 1,624 |
| Totals | 9,318 | 9,484 | 9,761 |