§ Mr. SillarsTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will set out in detail the present position on widows' benefits, showing the ages and family circumstances which bring the various benefits into operation.
§ Mr. Peter LloydThe following is the present position on widows' benefits and takes into account my right hon. Friend's decision announced on 28 February 1989 at columns161–62.
Widows' benefits for women widowed before 11 April 1988 Widowed mothers' allowance—followed widows' allowance where the widow has a child for whom child benefit is payable. Child dependency increases paid for each child. This is paid in addition to child benefit.Widowed mothers' allowance (personal)—followed widowed mother's allowance for widows where the youngest child is under 19 and has left school but remains at home and child benefit is not payable.Widows' pension—followed widows' allowance if widowed over 40 and childless or on cessation of widowed mothers' allowance. Amount determined by age at relevant time, minimum rate payable at 40 and full rate at 50.Widows' benefits for women widowed after 10 April 1988 Widows' payment—tax-free lump sum of £1,000 payable on bereavement if widowed under 60 or husband not retired.Widowed mothers' allowance—paid from widowhood if the widow has a qualifying child. Child dependency increases paid for each child. This is paid in addition to child benefit.Widows' pension—paid from widowhood if widowed over 45 and childless or, if over 45, when widowed mothers' allowance ceases. Amount determined by age at relevant time, minimum rate payable at 45 and full rate at 55.Note: The foregoing does not give details of the contribution conditions that must be satisfied before payment.