HC Deb 27 June 1966 vol 730 c1215
16. Mr. Scott

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance whether she will take steps to end the anomaly whereby a woman who is widowed for the second time cannot receive a widow's pension by virtue of her first husband's contributions to the National Insurance Scheme.

Mr. Pentland

This position is a consequence of the general principle under which National Insurance widows' benefits cease on remarriage.

Mr. Scott

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that very few widows are in this unfortunate position and since, by definition, their misfortune usually verges on tragedy, coud not he find a way around the anomaly?

Mr. Pentland

I could explain this matter at length, but I assure the hon. Gentleman that any deviation from the principle would involve much wider issues than those indicated by him today.

Mr. Scott

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall seek to raise this matter on the Adjournment at the earliest opportunity.