HL Deb 26 October 1960 vol 225 c1092

2.56 p.m.

LORD FRASER OF LONSDALE

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the second Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

[The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they have any statement to make as to any improvement which they may be contemplating in War Pensions and/or War Widows' Pensions.]

THE MINISTER WITHOUT PORTFOLIO (THE EARL OF DUNDEE)

My Lords, I have no statement to make on this subject at present.

LORD FRASER OF LONSDALE

My Lords, may I ask my noble friend, while congratulating Her Majesty's Government on the fact that the cost of living has remained stable for three years and that wages have risen by 12 per cent. in the last three years since a major reform of war pensions was made, whether the time has not now come when war widows and war pensioners should share in these good things; and could he not make a statement or foreshadow that one will be made soon?

THE EARL OF DUNDEE

My Lords, the Government, of course, have these considerations in mind. But I do not think it is likely that a statement will be made in the present Session of Parliament.