§ Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Secretary of State for Social Services, pursuant to his written reply on 15 July, if he has yet finished his considerations into the possibility of introducing an alternative to the household duties test for non-contributory invalidity pension for married women; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PrenticeAs the household duties test has caused considerable controversy ever since non-contributory invalidity pension for married women was introduced, there must be careful and detailed consideration of any alternatives. I have, therefore, asked officials to conduct the review thoroughly and work on it is proceeding as quickly as possible.