HC Deb 30 June 1988 vol 136 c347W
Mr. Corbett

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the maximum weekly amount payable as a parent's pension in respect of sons or daughters killed on active service in the armed forces; when it was last increased; and what plans he has for further increasing it.

Mr. Portillo

These pensions are means-tested and the normal maximum rates are £1 per week for one parent and £1.38 for two parents, though there is provision for these maxima to be increased to 1.38 for one parent and £2 for two. The pensions were introduced during the first world war and the rates have not been increased since 1948, when a comprehensive system of social security was established. There are no plans for further increases.