§ Mr. Sillarsasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what recent representations he has received from the Presbytery of Ayr about the inadequacy of the present death grant; what replies he has sent; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Joel Barnettasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) if he will introduce legislation to ensure that payment is made to bereaved parents to cover all funeral expenses of a deceased child;
(2) what is the present death grant payable to the parents of a deceased child; what is the minimum cost of a funeral in such cases; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. DeanThe amount of the death grant depends on the age of the child. Where the contribution conditions are fully satisfied, the grant is £9 for a child under 3 years; £15 for those aged 3–5 years inclusive; and £22.50 for those aged 6–17 years inclusive. My right hon. Friend has no immediate proposals for increasing these amounts. So far as I am aware, there is no minimum charge for a funeral of a child.