§ 24. Mr. Cocksasked the Minister of National Insurance whether he has considered the position of a married woman who has reached pensionable age since 5th July, 1948, but is not receiving a pension because her husband, who 16 reached pensionable age before that date and is drawing a pension of 10s. a week, has not yet retired from employment; and whether he can make a statement on the subject.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of National Insurance (Mr. Steele)Yes, Sir; we are amending the regulations to enable the retirement pension such a woman may receive when her husband retires or reaches the age of 70, or on his earlier death, to be increased by one shilling a week for every 12 months which have elapsed between her sixtieth birthday and the date when the pension becomes payable.
§ Mr. CocksIs my hon. Friend aware that that answer will give satisfaction? Can he say whether these regulations will come before the House before the Summer Recess?
§ Mr. SteeleOh, yes, we want to do this quickly.
§ Sir Waldron SmithersWill the regulations require the confirmation of this House.
§ Mr. SteeleI should like to have notice of that question.