Widows

HC Deb 14 November 1955 vol 546 cc17-8

13. Mr. Moss

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance what consideration he has given to the possibility of increasing the amount widows are allowed to earn without a reduction of pension; and whether he will make a statement.

35. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance if he will again consider the need of increasing the amount that may be earned by widows without losing their right to draw a full pension, particularly in view of existing hardship borne by many widows through increased living costs.

Mr. Peake

I cannot add to the reply given to the hon. and learned Member for Aberdeen, North (Mr. Hector Hughes) on 31st October.

Mr. Moss

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think that some concession ought to be made to widows, many of whom have become the breadwinners of their families and have to take responsibility for the enormous cost of clothing and feeding children?

Mr. Peake

The whole question of widows' benefits is now with the National Insurance Advisory Committee. It is, in fact, preparing its Report to me on this matter.

Mr. Sorensen

Has the Minister himself made no inquiries as to the incidence of hardship on many of these widows, particularly in view of the increased cost of living?

Mr. Peake

As I have said, and repeat, this matter is with the National Insurance Advisory Committee. So long as it is with that Committee, it would not be proper for me to take independent action.

33. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance how many widows in the borough of Leyton are drawing pensions; and how many of these receive less than the full amount because of other income.

Mr. Peake

I regret that this information is not available.

Mr. Sorensen

Is the Minister not aware that the figures exist? Can he not assist hon. Members to obtain these figures by making inquiries in the proper quarter?

Mr. Peake

No, Sir. I am afraid that our figures of widow pensioners are not kept upon this sort of local basis. I can, however, tell the hon. Gentleman that non-contributory old-age pensions as well as National Insurance pensions are affected by the question of earnings and incomes.