§ 17. Mr. Kirkasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance how many war widows known to his Department are not receiving the full amount of 19 the war widows' pension owing to their having been separated from their husbands at the time of their husbands' deaths; and what would be the cost to the Exchequer in a full year if they were awarded the full pension.
§ Mr. PeakeAbout 970 war widows who were separated from their husbands are receiving pensions at less than the full rates. These pensions are equivalent to the amount of support which the widow received before her husband's death. To bring these pensions up to the normal rates would cost about £85,000 a year.
§ Mr. KirkIn view of the very small sum involved, would not my right hon. Friend reconsider this rather peculiar position and bring these pensioners into line with other war widows?
§ Mr. PeakeThis rule has been in existence for a very long time and has been administered by Ministers of Pensions of all parties. On the face of it, it seems reasonable to limit the amount given to the widow to the amount she was receiving from her husband whilst he was alive.
§ Mr. EdeIs it not possible—and, indeed, likely—that if the husband had lived the woman would have asked for an increase in the order made by the justices, as his earnings would probably have increased with the general increase of wages?
§ Mr. PeakeThat is a point to be borne in mind. But there is also the converse case, that the man might have fallen down on his payments had he remained alive.
§ Mr. KirkIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible moment.