HC Deb 12 July 1954 vol 530 cc22-3
40. Mr. Wyatt

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance whether he will introduce legislation to raise the amount that can be earned by widows and widowed mothers without forfeiting any part of their pensions.

Mr. Peake

The provisions governing widows' benefits are at present being reviewed at my request by the National Insurance Advisory Committee.

Mr. Wyatt

Would the Minister say when we are likely to get an answer? Does he realise that many of these people are suffering from the rises in the cost of living, which are continuing under his Administration; and does he think it fair further to penalise them by preventing them from earning a little more to offset these increases?

Mr. Peake

I think we should all be wise to await the report of this eminent body before we come to any conclusion on this matter.