§ 31. Lieut.-Commander Hutchisonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he expects to be able to make a statement on the possibility of introducing a scheme to provide pensions for the widows of teachers.
§ Miss HerbisonThe difficult financial problems involved in any scheme of pensions for the widows of teachers require careful consideration and should be examined in the light of the results of the actuarial inquiry into the Teachers' Superannuation Scheme now proceeding. It will, therefore, be some little time before a further statement can be made.
§ Lieut.-Commander HutchisonWill the hon. Lady indicate when the results of the actuarial inquiry are likely to become known?
§ Miss HerbisonWe hope that the report will be ready by the end of this year.
§ Mr. Niall MacphersonWill the hon. Lady tell us why this matter has not been considered at all in the last five years? Why is consideration only now being started?
§ Miss HerbisonThis Committee has been sitting for some time. This subject has been the concern of the Department for a considerable time but no steps can be taken until the report of the Committee is ready.
§ Mr. HamiltonCan the hon. Lady say why it was not dealt with by hon. Members opposite between the wars?