HC Deb 14 December 1965 vol 722 cc1061-2
9. Mr. Gower

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has for extending the categories of those entitled to early payment of post-war credits.

Mr. Callaghan

None at present.

Mr. Gower

While recognising that both sides of the House must feel a bit uneasy that thousands of people have been holding these bits of paper for nearly a quarter of a century, may I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman cannot consider enlarging slightly the existing categories to give hope to more people?

Mr. Callaghan

The hon. Member presses me in other connections to keep down expenditure. Now he is asking me if I cannot increase it. The answer is that I cannot do both at the same time.

10. Mr. Gower

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will take steps to enable all widows aged 40 years or more to receive repayment of their post-war credits.

Mr. Callaghan

Widows, irrespective of their age, are entitled to repayment of post-war credits which they hold in their own right.